Tom Hardy will play Elton John in Rocketman

Michael Gracey's Elton John biopic Rocketman has found its leading man, with Tom Hardy confirmed as the artist formerly known as Reginald Kenneth Dwight.

Hardy had long been linked to the role, and the speculation was confirmed by an official press release from Focus Features, with CEO Peter Schlessel explaining, "we are confident that Tom will embody the physicality and spirit of Sir Elton."

The film will follow John's journey from child prodigy to global superstar, with the action to be accompanied by a number of new recordings from the man himself.

"Tom is a stellar talent who will add extraordinary depth and nuance in bringing Elton’s story to life," said producer Steve Hamilton Shaw. "We are excited to have such a gifted actor on board."

Directed by Gracey from a script by Lee Hall, shooting will begin on the project in 2014, with Rocketman expected to arrive in cinemas in 2015.

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