English actor Tom Hardy will be starring as Elton John in the upcoming biopic Rocketman, based on the legendary performer’s life.
While mainstream audiences best know Hardy as Bane, Batman’s nemesis in The Dark Knight Rises, the 36-year-old is one of the most versatile actors on the planet. In addition to The Dark Knight Rises, Hardy has received critical acclaim for his portrayal of English criminal Charles Bronson in Bronson; Eames in Inception; Ricki Tarr in Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy and Tommy Riordan in Warrior.
“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,” said Focus Features CEO Peter Schlessel. “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.”
Michael Gracey, who signed onto the project in March, will be making his directorial debut with Rocketman. He will be working off a script written by War Horse screenwriter Lee Hall. Elton John will be rerecording many of his iconic hits for the upcoming film, which will begin with his childhood as a five-year-old music prodigy.
Filming for Rocketman is expected to begin in the Fall of 2014.
