Tom Hardy will play Elton John in biopic
Tom Hardy will play Elton John in biopic

Tom Hardy will play Elton John in the biopic "Rocketman," which will begin filming in fall 2014.

Tom Hardy is all set to play the legendary singer Elton John in the singer biopic titled "Rocketman", Variety.com confirmed. The casting of Hardy in the film will reportedly boost its U.S. release. The biopic is being directed by Michael Gracey.

"Rocketman" will tell the story of the "Candle in the Wind" singer's life beginning as a five-year-old musical prodigy.  The production team thought it only befitting that an actor as talented as Hardy plays the eminent role.

"Tom is quickly becoming known as one of the world's most versatile actors, and like others at the top of their craft, he has proven his ability to transform himself completely into the character or subject found in the material," Focus Features CEO Peter Schlessel told Variety.  "We are confident that Tom will embody the physicality and spirit of Sir Elton. This, in conjunction with the creative team led by Michael and Rocket Pictures, will provide the foundation for something that will be a unique cinematic event."

According to The Wrap.com, producer Steve Hamilton Shaw echoed similar thoughts revealing how excited he was to see Hardy play the lead role in the film.

"Tom is a stellar talent who will add extraordinary depth and nuance in bringing Elton's story to life," Shaw said.  "We are excited to have such a gifted actor on board, and equally excited to be in the hands of Peter Schlessel and the entire Focus Features team."

Hardy is best known for his role in "The Dark Knight Rises" where he played Bane, the villain protector of Talia al Ghul, daughter of the League of Shadow's Ra's al Ghul.  He also played Eames in the psychological thriller "Inception."