Billy Joel Fights Unauthorized Biopic

Billy Joel is taking a firm stance against an unauthorized biopic, "Billy & Me." His representatives have explicitly stated that the singer has not authorized or supported the project in any capacity. The film intends to focus on Joel's early life and career before his 1973 breakthrough album, "Piano Man," as narrated by his former manager, Irwin Mazur, who discovered him in 1966.

Joel's team emphasized that parties involved have been aware since 2021 that they do not possess his life rights or the necessary music clearances. The statement warned that proceeding without authorization would be legally and professionally misguided. "Billy & Me" is set to begin production in the fall in Winnipeg and Joel's native New York.

Jon Small, drummer from Joel's early band Hassles, is involved as a consultant and producer. Small defended the film, calling it an honest portrayal of Joel's early life and rise to stardom. He stated the script captures the music, friendships, struggles, and creative spark of those formative years.