Billy Joel Rejects Unauthorized Biopic ‘Billy & Me’: What We Know About the Controversial Project
Billy Joel has made it clear: the upcoming biopic Billy & Me, directed by John Ottman and based on the early years of his career, does not have his approval. The film, which will explore Joel’s rise to fame through the perspective of his first manager, Irwin Mazur, has been met with legal and professional pushback from the legendary musician. Here’s what we know about the project, Joel’s stance, and the complex history it aims to capture.
The Biopic: Origins and Controversy
The film Billy & Me is set to tell the story of Billy Joel’s formative years—from his discovery by Mazur in 1966 to his eventual signing with Columbia Records in 1973. The project is being framed as an “unauthorized” biopic, meaning it does not have Joel’s endorsement, nor does it hold rights to his music or life story.
Filmmakers have secured the life rights of Mazur and drummer Jon Small, a longtime friend of Joel’s who played in his early bands The Hassles and Attila. Small is involved in the project as a co-executive producer, consultant, and second-unit director. However, Joel has explicitly stated that he has not authorized the film and does not support it in any capacity.
“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.”
Why Joel Opposes the Film
Joel’s opposition stems from both legal and creative concerns. The musician has repeatedly emphasized that he does not own the rights to his own life story or music, and any attempt to move forward without his approval is considered “professionally misguided.”
the film’s focus on Mazur and Small raises questions about how Joel’s personal history—particularly his tumultuous relationships with Small and his then-wife, Elizabeth Weber—will be portrayed. Joel has previously spoken openly about the emotional fallout from his relationship with Weber, which led to the dissolution of Attila and a period of homelessness and depression.
“I felt very, very guilty about it. They had a child. I felt like a homewrecker. I was just in love with a woman, and I got punched in the nose, which I deserved.”
Filmmakers’ Perspective: Authenticity and Emotional Depth
Despite Joel’s rejection, director John Ottman and Small remain committed to the project, framing it as an authentic portrayal of Joel’s early years. Ottman, who also edited the Michael Jackson biopic This Is It, has described the film as “a deeply emotional and fun story” centered on Joel’s relationship with Mazur.
Small, who has maintained a close friendship with Joel over the decades, has called the project “the most honest, heartfelt, and authentic portrayal of Billy’s early life.” He emphasizes that the film will capture not just the music but also the “friendships, struggles, humor, and creative spark” that defined those years.
“This is the formative years of Billy and his relationship with Irwin Mazur, the man who recognized Billy’s amazing talent even before Billy did himself.”
Key Takeaways: What’s Next for the Project?
- No Joel Approval: The film does not have Billy Joel’s endorsement, nor does it hold rights to his music or life story.
- Focus on Mazur and Small: The narrative is centered on Joel’s early manager and drummer, offering a perspective distinct from Joel’s own.
- Legal and Creative Tensions: Joel’s team has made it clear that moving forward without his approval would be legally and professionally risky.
- Uncertain Future: No release date or cast details have been confirmed, though filming is expected to begin this fall.
Beyond the Biopic: Billy Joel’s Recent Updates
While the Billy & Me controversy unfolds, Billy Joel has been navigating other significant developments. Last year, he canceled all scheduled concert dates after revealing a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder affecting balance and cognition.
Joel’s daughter has shared that he is handling the diagnosis with resilience, undergoing physical therapy and making progress in his recovery. Meanwhile, Joel has continued to engage with fans through appearances, including a recent performance alongside his tribute act, marking his first public appearance since his diagnosis.
FAQ: What You Need to Know About Billy & Me
- Is Billy Joel involved in the film?
- No. Joel has explicitly stated that he does not support or endorse the project.
- Will the film use Billy Joel’s music?
- It is unclear whether the filmmakers have secured the rights to Joel’s music. Joel’s spokesperson has confirmed that music rights are not part of the project’s current approval.
- Who is Irwin Mazur?
- Mazur was Joel’s first manager, signing him in 1970 and working with him until he switched to Columbia Records. The film will explore their professional and personal relationship.
- When will Billy & Me be released?
- No official release date has been announced, though filming is expected to begin in the fall of 2026.
- How does Joel feel about the project?
- Joel has called the film “legally and professionally misguided” and has made it clear that he does not support it in any capacity.
The Bigger Picture: Unauthorized Biopics and Creative Control
The Billy & Me controversy raises broader questions about unauthorized biopics and the ethical implications of telling someone’s story without their consent. While films like this can offer unique perspectives, they also risk misrepresenting or exploiting the subjects they claim to honor.
As the project moves forward, all eyes will be on how it navigates these challenges—and whether it can deliver on its promise of authenticity without crossing legal or creative boundaries.