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Michael Stipe Hints Billie Eilish Biopic Role, Announces 2026 Album

4/24/2026

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Summary

Stipe Discusses Biopic

Michael Stipe appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on April 23, 2026, to discuss a possible R.E.M. biopic and his solo album.
He suggested Billie Eilish could portray a younger version of him because they share blue eyes.
He performed “The Rest of Ever” with Louis Cato and the Great Big Joy Machine on the show.
He announced his solo album will be released by the end of 2026.

Summary

Stipe Reunites

Michael Stipe and his former R.E.M. bandmates performed at the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony, first joint appearance in fifteen years.
He gave 215 T-shirts to staff and crew, explained a misheard “Drunken Sailor” lyric, and debuted “The Rest of Ever” with Louis Cato’s house band and The Great Big Joy Machine.
Stipe said he is finalizing the last lyrics for his debut solo album, due end of year.

History

Historical Context

Formed in 1980, R.E.M.—with Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, Mike Mills and Bill Berry—helped define alternative rock and sold more than 90 million albums worldwide. After releasing their final studio album *Collapse into Now* and the single “We All Go Back to Where We Belong” in 2011, the band officially disbanded, ending a three-decade career.

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Stipe Discusses Biopic

Michael Stipe appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on April 23, 2026, to discuss a possible R.E.M. biopic and his solo album.
He suggested Billie Eilish could portray a younger version of him because they share blue eyes.
He performed “The Rest of Ever” with Louis Cato and the Great Big Joy Machine on the show.
He announced his solo album will be released by the end of 2026.

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