A new, two-part documentary about Billy Joel will premiere on HBO this summer.
Titled Billy Joel: And So It Goes, the new doc is directed by Susan Lacy – who created PBS’ American Masters series and has previously helmed HBO docs such as docs Jane Fonda in Five Acts, and Spielberg – and Jessica Levin, who produced those projects as well as The Janes.
Per the longline, the upcoming doc will examine the life and music of Billy Joel, exploring the love, loss, and personal struggles that fuel his songwriting. It includes access to never-before-seen performances, home movies, and personal photographs, along with one-on-one interviews.
Lacy said of the project (via Deadline): “For those who think they know Joel’s story, as well as those who are not as familiar, I believe this two-part film is both a revelation and a surprise. I was drawn to his story as someone who knew little at the outset, and was astounded at how autobiographical his songs are and how complex his story is. We are gratified that Bill trusted us with his story, which we have told as honestly as possible, diving into territory which has not been explored before.”
The doc announcement comes after Joel recently revealed that he was postponing months of touring due to a medical condition.
In other HBO news, Nick Frost is reportedly set to play Hagrid in the new Harry Potter TV series.
Deadline reported that the British actor, famous for his work with Simon Pegg in The Cornetto Trilogy, is “nearing a deal” to play the Hogwarts groundskeeper. In the hit films, the character was played by the late Robbie Coltrane.
Based on the popular novels, the new Harry Potter series is believed to begin filming this year. John Lithgow has confirmed he is playing Professor Dumbledore while Janet McTeer and Paapa Essiedu are also reported to play Professor Minerva McGonagall and Professor Severus Snape, respectively.