Story perspectives

John Ottman Directs Unauthorized Billy Joel Biopic “Billy & Me”

5/20/2026

Summary

Ottman Directs Biopic

John Ottman (director) will direct the unauthorized biopic “Billy & Me” about a young Billy Joel.
The film is told from Irwin Mazur’s viewpoint and uses life-rights from Mazur and drummer Jon Small.
Billy Joel is not involved and producers do not expect music-rights clearance.
Shooting is planned for New York and Winnipeg this fall.
The story ends before the 1973 release of “Piano Man.”

Summary

Billy Joel Recovering

Billy Joel disclosed in May 2025 that he is undergoing treatment for normal pressure hydrocephalus.
He told PEOPLE in July 2025 that he feels okay and continues touring and performing.
Director John Ottman said the story’s appeal lies in its humanity and authentic period look, including long hair and cigarette smoke.
Drummer Jon Small praised the script for capturing the music, friendships, struggles and humor of that era.

Summary

Cohen Funds Biopic

Jay Cohen, former Gersh Agency finance partner, is assembling financing for “Billy & Me” and handling domestic distribution.
Mitchell Leib, Grammy-nominated former Disney Music president, serves as executive music producer.
The film secured exclusive life-rights from Irwin Mazur and Jon Small, who also acts as consultant, co-executive producer and second-unit director.
Joel’s early 1970 acid-rock duo Attila, formed with Small, supplies source material for the biopic.

History

Historical Context

Oliver Stone’s 1991 film *The Doors* revived the band’s profile and provoked disputes with surviving members over song usage. Those conflicts led to a 1995 $2.5 million settlement after Columbia Pictures released the biopic, showing how renewed interest can spark costly rights battles. Similar revivals occurred in the late 1970s after *An American Prayer* and the 1979 use of “The End” in *Apocalypse Now*.

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Ottman Directs Biopic

John Ottman (director) will direct the unauthorized biopic “Billy & Me” about a young Billy Joel.
The film is told from Irwin Mazur’s viewpoint and uses life-rights from Mazur and drummer Jon Small.
Billy Joel is not involved and producers do not expect music-rights clearance.
Shooting is planned for New York and Winnipeg this fall.
The story ends before the 1973 release of “Piano Man.”

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