Universal prepares to revive bon jovi story

Universal Pictures is developing a biopic focused on the early years of Bon Jovi, the iconic rock band behind anthems like "Livin’ on a Prayer" and "Wanted Dead or Alive." The studio emerged victorious from a bidding war to bring the project to fruition, according to a report from Deadline.

Early days of a rock icon

The film will chronicle the formative years of the New Jersey-based band throughout the 1980s, a period when frontman Jon Bon Jovi, whose real name is John Bongiovi, helped solidify their place in music history. The project secures participation from Bon Jovi himself, granting access to the band's extensive music library.

Cody Brother, known for his screenwriting work on titles such as Drudge and Killing Satoshi, will pen the script. Producing the film are Kevin J. Walsh, whose credits include Manchester by the Sea and Napoleon, and Gotham Chopra, previously involved in the Thank You, Goodnight: Bon Jovi Story project.

Jacqueline Garell, Universal's head of production, will oversee the biopic.

Bon Jovi burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut album in 1984, yielding immediate hits like "Runaway" and "Shot Through the Heart." The band continued their ascent with 7800 Fahrenheit in 1985, featuring singles like "In and Out of Love." However, it was 1986's Slippery When Wet that catapulted them to superstardom, delivering a string of iconic tracks including "Livin’ on a Prayer," "You Give Love a Bad Name," and, of course, "Wanted Dead or Alive." The band remains active, releasing their most recent album, Forever, in 2024.

While details regarding the cast and a release date remain under wraps, Universal's move signals renewed interest in chronicling the rise of legendary rock acts. This follows a surge in interest in music biopics, most recently with projects focusing on The Beatles.

The music industry consistently seeks to repackage familiar narratives, but the enduring appeal of Bon Jovi’s story suggests a continued appetite for tales of working-class heroes achieving global fame.