Billy Joel Rep Slams Unauthorized Planned Biopic, Says ‘Misguided’ Film ‘Will Not Be Able to Secure the Music Rights Required’

**Unauthorized Billy Joel Biopic Sparks Controversy Ahead of Filming**

The upcoming biopic titled “Billy and Me,” centred on iconic musician Billy Joel, is set to begin filming in the autumn. However, Joel has publicly denounced the project, declaring it unauthorized and announcing that his music will not be part of the film. Disturbingly for the filmmakers, a spokesperson for Joel has indicated that they are unable to secure the necessary music rights, suggesting that any attempt to proceed without Joel’s permission would not only be legally dubious but also professionally unwise.

The film, directed by John Ottman and penned by Adam Ripp, is reportedly aiming to provide a perspective on Joel’s trajectory to fame, primarily focusing on his relationship with manager Irwin Mazur during the crucial period leading up to the release of his 1973 hit “Piano Man.” Despite the excitement surrounding its development, the absence of Joel’s music looms large over the production.

A representative for Joel, now 77, has reiterated that those involved in “Billy and Me” have been informed that they do not possess the necessary life rights to Joel’s story nor the permissions required to use his music. The spokesperson’s statement went on to say, “Since 2021, the parties involved have been officially notified that they do not possess Billy Joel’s life rights and will not be able to secure the music rights required for this project.”

The announcement of the biopic follows a previous attempt to bring Joel’s life to the big screen, which was tentatively titled “Piano Man.” That project, initiated in collaboration with Michael Jai White and Jaigantic Studios, did not come to fruition, leading to the current venture.

Ottman, known not only for his work as an Oscar-winning film editor on the successful Freddie Mercury biopic “Bohemian Rhapsody,” is familiar with the complexities of music-centric storytelling in films. Additionally, Ripp has experience in the industry through his writing and directing roles, including the horror film “Devil’s Whisper.” Nevertheless, the current undertaking faces significant hurdles without Joel’s cooperation.

In a notable twist, the rights for “Billy and Me” are based on the exclusive life rights obtained from Mazur and drummer Jon Small, who played a part in Joel’s early career. Small, involved in the production, was previously married to Joel’s first wife, Elizabeth Weber, adding layers to the interpersonal relationships depicted in the film.

Joel’s life story has been explored in previous formats, most notably in the two-part documentary “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” directed by Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin, which aired on HBO in July 2025. The documentary featured the musician’s perspective on various aspects of his life, including his battles with addiction and mental health, as well as his current family life with his wife Alexis and their three daughters.

Commenting on his resistance to portrayals of his life, Joel expressed to PEOPLE at the time, “I’ve resisted this kind of thing for so long. I’m sick of talking about myself.” He acknowledged the difficulty in confronting some of his past choices but allowed that he had provided thematic guidance for the documentary, asking, “Just tell the truth.”

The controversy surrounding “Billy and Me” serves as a reminder of the importance of securing rights when depicting the lives and legacies of artists. As the project moves forward without Joel’s creative input, questions abound regarding its authenticity and potential reception among fans and critics alike. How it will manage to convey the essence of Joel’s trajectory and artistry without his music remains to be seen.

With the pressing deadline for filming in the fall, the filmmakers face an uphill task. As they move into production, many observers will be watching closely to see how they address the challenges imposed by the lack of access to Joel’s music and personal insights. The film is expected to shine a light on an era that shaped one of America’s most beloved singer-songwriters, but the controversy around its legitimacy may overshadow its story.

As audiences await further developments, the situation raises broader questions about artistic expression, ownership, and the complexities that can arise when attempting to depict the lives of legendary figures in the entertainment industry.