Billy Joel Disowns 'Billy and Me' as Casting Proceeds Without His Rights
Updated
Updated · Pitchfork · May 20
Billy Joel Disowns 'Billy and Me' as Casting Proceeds Without His Rights
9 articles · Updated · Pitchfork · May 20
Billy Joel said he has not authorized or supported “Billy and Me” in any capacity, distancing himself from a film about his pre-“Piano Man” years.
The dispute centers on rights: Joel’s camp says moving ahead without his life or music rights is legally and professionally misguided, while producers say the project rests on Irwin Mazur’s and Jon Small’s life rights and firsthand accounts.
Casting is still under way for the John Ottman-directed film, with Small attached as consultant, co-executive producer and second-unit director.
The project focuses on Joel’s early period with the Hassles and cover songs from that era, a structure the filmmakers use to argue it is based on others’ perspectives rather than Joel’s authorization.
The standoff echoes the 2020 David Bowie film “Stardust,” which also faced backlash after proceeding without the artist’s music rights.
What secrets from Billy Joel's past justify making a movie against his explicit wishes?
How can a Billy Joel biopic succeed without his blessing or any of his iconic songs?