Earlier this week, the Daily Mail announced that famed Wham! frontman George Michael would be in the film, with White Lotus star Theo James playing Michael in the film. The project was reportedly approved by George Michael’s estate “after the success of Elton John and Queen’s Freddie Mercury biopic.”
Yesterday, Michael’s Estate released a statement denying any involvement with the project. An article was published that endorsed the so-called “biography”: “On behalf of George’s family, [George Michael Entertainment] There is no truth to this story and I would like to clarify that I know nothing about this project.
The email story wasn’t the first time Michael’s estate was suggested to be interested in a biopic. Due to the success of the Rhapsody biopic, Michael’s family was “enthusiastic to move forward” with the film, but not many major stakeholders, including Michael’s sister, father and ex-boyfriend.
James himself seemed to hint at possible casting when he appeared on Watch What Happens Live, which aired with Andy Cohen earlier this month, and would like to play the deceased singer. “He’s an icon,” he said. “He’s a little Greek and I’m a little Greek.
A documentary about Michael, George Michael: Freedom, was released in 2017. Narrated shortly before Michael’s death, the film explored Michael’s admirers and collaborators, including Naomi Campbell, Elton John, and Liam Gallagher. It was re-released last June as George Michael: Freedom Uncut with new footage.