George Michael's estate denies endorsing rumoured biopic

George Michael's estate has vehemently denied any endorsement of a "warts and all" biopic about the late Wham! frontman.

The statement arrives following a story published by the Daily Mail claiming that Michael's family had involvement in the project celebrating the singer's career and life.

The Daily Mail reported that White Lotus star Theo James is tipped to portray George Michael in the film, which the article wrote was endorsed by his estate “after the success of biopics about Elton John and Queen’s Freddie Mercury”.

Yesterday, the estate released a post adamantly denying any involvement in the biopic.

“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.”

In 2021, the Sun’s Simon Boyle wrote in his column that Michael’s family was “keen to move ahead” with a film due to the success of 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 appeared to reference the potential casting during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in recent weeks, commenting that he would “love” to portray the late musician. “He’s an icon,” he said, “And he’s a bit Greek and I’m a bit Greek.”

The George Michael: Freedom documentary was released in 2017, narrated by Michael shortly before his death. The film featured input from Michael’s admirers and collaborators, including Naomi Campbell, Stevie Wonder Elton John and Liam Gallagher.

He sold more than 100 million albums, netted two Grammys and three Brit Awards, and scored 10 No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100–two with Wham!, six solo, one duet with Elton John, one duet with Aretha Franklin.

The singer was found dead on Christmas Day 2016.

It was re-released with new footage last June as George Michael: Freedom Uncut.