Billy Joel condemns an upcoming biopic, “Billy & Me,” describing it as “legally and professionally misguided.” Multiple outlets report that Joel says he has not authorized or supported the project. The film is set to focus on his early life and career, specifically telling the story of how he entered the music business through the perspective of his first manager, Irwin Mazur, who discovered him in 1966 and managed him from signing in 1970 until Joel signed with Columbia Records in 1972. Billboard and other sources note that Joel’s breakthrough follows this early-career period, including the release of “Piano Man” in 1973. Rolling Stone and Consequence of Sound report that Joel’s representatives also state that the production does not have rights connected to his music. The Hollywood Reporter adds that the movie is directed by John Ottman. Sources agree the singer’s statement is a public rejection of the film’s legitimacy and the rights under which it is being made.