George Michael’s estate denies endorsing biopic

Earlier this week, the Daily Mail reported that a big-budget “warts and all” biopic about the life and career of celebrated Wham! frontman George Michael was in the works, with White Lotus star Theo James tipped to portray Michael in the film. According to the report, the project was endorsed by the estate of George Michael “after the success of biopics about Elton John and Queen’s Freddie Mercury”.

Yesterday, Michael’s estate released a statement denying any involvement in the project. “To all of George’s Lovelies, fans and lovers of his music, a story has been published stating that George Michael’s family has endorsed a so called ‘biopic’ about his life,” it said. “On behalf of George’s family and [George Michael Entertainment] we want to make it clear that there is no truth whatsoever in this story, we know nothing about this project and will not be endorsing it in any way.”

The Mail’s story was not the first time it had been suggested that Michael’s estate was interested in a biopic. In 2021, the Sun’s Simon Boyle reported in his Bizarre column that Michael’s family was “keen to move ahead” with a film due to the success of the the Rocketman and Bohemian Rhapsody biopics, but that it had been put on hold due to disagreement between key stakeholders, including Michael’s sister, father and ex-boyfriend.

James himself seemed to hint at his potential casting during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen earlier this month, saying that he would “love” to portray the late singer. “He’s an icon,” he said, “And he’s a bit Greek and I’m a bit Greek.”

A documentary about Michael, George Michael: Freedom, was released in 2017. Narrated by Michael shortly before his death, the film featured talking heads from Michael’s admirers and collaborators, including Naomi Campbell, Elton John and Liam Gallagher. It was re-released with new footage last June as George Michael: Freedom Uncut.