Taron Egerton’s star is on the ascendant right now. He broke out as scally turned secret agent Eggsy Unwin in Matthew Vaughn’s surprise smash-hit Kingsman and recently reprised the part in the equally enjoyable Kingsman: The Golden Circle. Now, we’re hearing that he’s lined up for an altogether more tuneful role as Reggie Dwight, aka Elton John in the long rumoured biopic, Rocketman.
Yes, it seems that the project is finally – finally! – getting off the ground now, with a script written by Lee Hall and Dexter Fletcher directing. From what we understand, it’ll follow Elton John’s early career after he won a piano scholarship, met longtime songwriting partner Bernie Taupin, and released some seriously toe-tapping pop.
This news comes to us from Deadline, who also reveal that Paramount will distribute Rocketman and describe the film as “an unvarnished rock ‘n’ roll biopic with John’s life stripped back of the glitter.” Furthermore, from what we understand, Egerton will be doing the singing himself, with sources close to the production saying he has an incredible voice. If you need further proof of that, just check out this video of him performing John’s I’m Still Standing in Sing, which easily proves he’s got the vocal gymnastics necessary for the job.
All things considered, Rocketman looks like it’s in with a chance to rise above music biopic mediocrity, with Egerton likely eager to prove himself in a role that, theoretically, could have awards potential. Word is that the film is now being fast-tracked into full production, so we should hear more about Rocketman very soon.
In the meantime, be sure to drop us a comment down below with your thoughts on the Kingsman star taking on this larger than life role. Will he be able to nail it? Or is he biting off more than he can chew?