'Professionally Misguided'
Rolling Stone • • general
Key Points:
- A new biopic titled "Billy & Me," focusing on Billy Joel's early years, is in development with John Ottman directing, but Joel has not authorized the film or granted music rights, according to his spokesperson.
- The story is told from the perspective of Joel’s first manager, Irwin Mazur, whose life rights the filmmakers have secured, and it will not feature Joel's original music, focusing instead on his formative years performing cover songs.
- Joel’s representative stated that proceeding without Joel's authorization would be legally and professionally misguided, while Ottman defended the project, emphasizing its basis on Mazur’s firsthand experiences and rights.
- The film also involves Jon Small, Joel’s longtime friend and collaborator, who has granted life rights and is serving as consultant, co-executive producer, and second unit director, with production set for fall 2026 in Canada and New York.
- Casting is underway, and the screenplay is written by Adam Ripp; Ottman previously edited the successful Michael Jackson biopic "Michael."