Exploring Billy Joel's Early Years: The Controversy Surrounding the Biographical Film Billy & Me
Billy Joel has distanced himself from the upcoming biographical film Billy & Me, stating that the project lacks his approval, life rights, and access to his music catalogue. Directed by John Ottman, the film will delve into Joel's early career before the release of Piano Man in 1973, focusing on his relationship with his first manager, Irwin Mazur. Casting is underway, and filming is scheduled to start later this year in Winnipeg and New York.
Despite Joel's disapproval, the production has obtained life rights from Mazur and Joel's friend and former bandmate Jon Small, who is involved in the film as a consultant, co-executive producer, and second unit director. The movie will explore Joel's early years in bands like the Hassles and Attila, as well as his personal and professional relationships before his breakthrough.
Small defended the project, calling it an honest and authentic portrayal of Joel's early life and rise to musical greatness. Ottman praised the script as funny, heartbreaking, and inspiring. This film follows the 2025 HBO documentary And So It Goes, which provided a detailed look at Joel's life and career.
In conclusion, Billy Joel has distanced himself from the biographical film Billy & Me, emphasizing that the project lacks his approval and access to his life rights and music catalogue. Despite this, the production has secured life rights from key figures in Joel's early career and aims to provide an authentic portrayal of his journey to musical success.