Billy Joel Denounces Unauthorized 'Billy & Me' Biopic
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Washington — Billy Joel said this week that the upcoming biopic titled Billy & Me is moving forward without his authorization or support, his representative told Variety on May 20. The representative stated the production does not possess Joel's life rights or the required music rights; John Ottman is reported to be attached as director and casting is underway.
Joel's team called any attempt to proceed without authorization legally and professionally misguided; producers have secured exclusive life rights from Irwin Mazur and Jon Small and the film is listed as pre-production on IMDb. Filming is slated for this fall, and rights clearances, public statements, and potential legal steps will determine whether the project proceeds.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 1966: Irwin Mazur reportedly discovers and begins managing Billy Joel.
- 2. 1970: Joel's band Attila releases an album; Joel later criticized it as 'psychedelic bullshit.'
- 3. 1973: Joel releases the album and song 'Piano Man,' marking his breakthrough.
- 4. Since 2021: Parties were notified they do not possess Billy Joel's life rights.
- 5. May 20: Outlets report Joel's representative saying the biopic lacks his authorization; producers hold life rights from Mazur and Jon Small.
Why it matters
If you're a Billy Joel fan, this biopic might not be the authentic story you're hoping for. Joel's team has warned that it's moving forward without his approval. Before you get excited about the film, you might want to follow the legal developments to see if it will truly represent the Piano Man's life.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
