Rocketman, the biographical musical fantasy of Elton John's life, may be eyeing Tom Hardy for the lead role. The actor, who portrayed Bane in The Dark Knight Rises, has reportedly been approached by director Michael Gracey and Elton John.

Rocketman has been in development for several years, getting a big boost forward earlier this year when Michael Gracey, best known for his work with flambuoyant dance numbers in his advertising commercials, was hired as the director.

The script, written by Lee Hall (Billy Elliot, War Horse), weaves together the life of Elton John (Reggie Dwight), and his music, following his childhood and rise to international fame and fortune. Much of the biopic focuses on Elton's collaborations with writing partner Bernie Taupin.

Up until this announcement, Justin Timberlake was rumored to be the front-runner for the part.

Tom Hardy is currently shooting the Soviet-Union set thriller, Child 44. Next year he is set to step into the shoes of Mel Gibson in Mad Max: Fury Road, followed by Dennis Lehane's Animal Rescue.

Elton John's Rocket Pictures will produce the film.

[via HitFix]

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