Tom Hardy To Play Elton John In Biopic

Tom Hardy is set to play Sir Elton John in a movie biopic of the veteran pop star.

The big-screen project, titled Rocketman in a reference to one of Elt's best-loved tracks, is being made with the co-operation of the 66-year-old star and will feature re-recorded versions of some of his hits.

It will follow the life of Reginald Dwight (Elton's real name) from a child prodigy piano player to pop icon, via massive stardom and a nasty drug habit.

Hardy, 36, is best known for his role as Bane in The Dark Knight Rises - and has also been acclaimed for his work in Inception and Bronson.

Steve Hamilton Shaw, the CEO of Rocket Pictures, said: "Tom is a stellar talent who will add extraordinary depth and nuance in bringing Elton's story to life. 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."

The movie is set to begin filming in the later part of 2014.