Billy Joel Rejects Biographical Film 'Billy & Me' Due to Rights Issues and Personal History

Billy Joel strongly condemned the unpublished biopic "Billy and I," directed by John Ottman (known for "Michael" and "Bohemian Rhapsody"). The singer called the project “misguided” and said that it will not receive the necessary rights to the music. The film follows the early years of Joel's career, before writing such hits as "Piano Man," from the perspective of his first manager, Irwin Mazur.

Joel insists that the film is legally and professionally inappropriate as rights to his music, especially early recordings, will not be granted. Since 2021, interested parties have been officially warned that they do not have music rights.

Despite this, Ottman plans to start filming in October, using the rights to the memories of drummer John Small and the video director, who also advises the film and leads a separate film crew. Small, a former drummer and member of Joel's early band The Hassles, also shared memories of a difficult relationship with Joel, including a personal altercation and dire consequences for both.

Joel disapproved of the film, calling the album The Hassles (1970) "psychedelic nonsense" and shared a personal story about the crisis caused by his relationship with his wife Small led to his eviction, depression and attempted suicide. Despite this, Small subsequently forgave Joel, and their marriage lasted from 1973 to 1982. Small described the film as “the most honest and authentic version of Joel’s early years.” Joel has not authorized or supported the project, and any attempt to promote without his approval would be illegal.