Billy & Me": The Unauthorized Biopic of Billy Joel's Early Career Through the Eyes of Irwin Mazur
Billy Joel has expressed his disapproval of the upcoming biopic "Billy & Me," which aims to portray his early career through the perspective of his first manager, Irwin Mazur. According to a statement from Joel's representative, the parties involved do not have the necessary rights to depict Joel's life or use his music in the film. Joel has not endorsed or supported the project and any attempt to proceed without his authorization is deemed legally and professionally misguided.
The biopic "Billy & Me" will delve into Billy Joel's rise to fame, focusing on his journey to stardom as seen through the eyes of his first manager, Irwin Mazur, who played a pivotal role in Joel's career from 1966 until his breakthrough with Columbia Records in 1972. The film has secured the life rights of Mazur and Joel's close friend and drummer, Jon Small, and will also explore the impact of personal relationships on Joel's career and mental well-being.
In addition to Mazur, the film will shed light on the role of Joel's first wife, Elizabeth Weber, who was previously married to Jon Small before leaving him for Joel, resulting in the disbandment of their group, Attila. The biopic will examine how these personal connections influenced Joel's professional trajectory and emotional state.
Directed by John Ottman, known for his work on the Michael biopic, and written by Adam Ripp, the film "Billy & Me" is being produced under the ArtPhyl Pictures banner. Jay Cohen, former Partner and Head of Film Finance and Distribution at the Gersh Agency, is overseeing the financing and domestic distribution of the project. Grammy-nominated music executive Mitchell Leib will serve as the film's executive music producer, adding a musical touch to the biopic.