Tom Hardy cast as Elton John in Rocketman biopic film

Focus Features will give the film a “major” U.S. release.

11:56 24 October 2013

It has been confirmed that Tom Hardy will play the role of Elton John in Rocketman, a biopic film with a shoot set for autumn next year.

The movie will be co-financed by Al Film and it will be given a “major” U.S. release by Focus Features. It will be directed by Michael Gracey from a screenplay by Lee Hall who is best known for penning War Horse and Billy Elliot to Oscar nominated effect.

John will re-record some of his hits for the film but it isn’t clear if Hardy will have a hand in singing and playing the piano on screen. 

John and Blavatnik are executive producing, along with AI Film CEO Aviv Giladi and Schlessel.

Schlessel said: “Tom is quickly becoming known as one of the world’s most versatile actors, and like others at the top of their craft, he has proven his ability to transform himself completely into the character or subject found in the material.

“We are confident that Tom will embody the physicality and spirit of Sir Elton. This, in conjunction with the creative team led by Michael and Rocket Pictures, will provide the foundation for something that will be a unique cinematic event.”