Universal Wins Bidding War for Bon Jovi Biopic Film

Universal Pictures has secured the rights to develop a biopic about the legendary rock band Bon Jovi. Screenwriter Cody Brotter is attached to pen the screenplay, though a director and cast have not been announced. The film will explore the band's journey since its 1983 formation and global success. This project joins a trend of popular music biopics like *Bohemian Rhapsody* and the upcoming Michael Jackson film *Michael*.

Key Points: Bon Jovi Biopic in Development at Universal Pictures

  • Universal wins project rights
  • Cody Brotter to write screenplay
  • Band formed in 1983
  • Focus of story not yet clear
  • Producers include Kevin J. Walsh
2 min read

'Bon Jovi' biopic in the works as Universal wins bidding war for feature film

Universal Pictures to develop a feature film on rock band Bon Jovi's life and journey, following hits like "Livin' on a Prayer."

"Universal Pictures has won a bidding war to develop a feature film about the band - Report"

Los Angeles, March 11

A film based on the life and journey of the famous rock band Bon Jovi is now in the works. Universal Pictures has won a bidding war to develop a feature film about the band known for global hits like "Livin' on a Prayer," "You Give Love a Bad Name," and "It's My Life."

According to reports, writer Cody Brotter, who also wrote the upcoming thriller Killing Satoshi starring Pete Davidson and Casey Affleck, will pen the screenplay for the project. A director for the film has not been announced yet. The casting for the actors who will play the band members has also not been revealed.

Bon Jovi was formed in 1983 and quickly became one of the most popular rock bands in the world. The band's founding members include singer Jon Bon Jovi, keyboardist David Bryan, and drummer Tico Torres, who are still part of the group today. Guitarist Richie Sambora, who left the band in 2013, and bassist Alec John Such, who left in 1994 and passed away in 2022, were also key members in the early years.

Over the years, Bon Jovi has earned a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame for their impact on music. It is not yet clear which part of the band's story the upcoming film will focus on. The movie could explore a key moment from their journey or tell a wider story about the band's rise to fame.

Kevin J. Walsh and Gotham Chopra of Religion of Sports will produce the film. Universal's director of production development, Jacqueline Garell, will oversee the project for the studio.

Music biopics have done well at the box office in recent years. Films like Bohemian Rhapsody, Elvis, and Bob Marley: One Love have found strong success with audiences. At the same time, some projects inspired by musicians have not performed as expected. Universal is also preparing to release another music-based film titled Michael, based on Michael Jackson, which is scheduled to arrive in theatres in April.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
Interesting to see another music biopic. After the success of *Bohemian Rhapsody*, studios are clearly chasing this trend. I wonder if they'll address Richie Sambora's departure—that was a big moment for fans. Casting will be crucial to capture Jon Bon Jovi's charisma.
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Vikram M
As an 80s kid, this brings back memories! Their cassettes were everywhere. But honestly, I'm a bit skeptical. Not every biopic needs to be made. I hope they focus on the music and the band's bond, not just create drama for the screen. The producer being involved gives some hope.
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Priya S
My father is a huge fan! He'll be so happy to hear this. We used to listen to "Livin' on a Prayer" on long road trips. I really hope the film captures the energy of their live performances. Who do you think could play a young Jon Bon Jovi?
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Rohit P
Universal is on a music spree with Michael Jackson and now this. Good for them, but as an Indian fan, I can't help but think—when will we get a proper, big-budget biopic on legends like A.R. Rahman or Kishore Kumar for the global audience? Our stories are equally powerful.
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Michael C
The key will be the soundtrack. If they get the music rights and the actors can actually perform, it could be great. The writer's background in thriller seems an odd choice though. Band dynamics are more about drama and chemistry than suspense.

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