The Tears & Tantrums Behind Rocketman!

All the juicy gossip from the movie of the moment

Mover over Freddie, the much-anticipated biopic Rocketman explodes on Aussie cinema screens this week! The film, based on the breakthrough years of eccentric singer Elton John was in development for two decades, with Kingsman star Taron Egerton, 29, finally scoring the lead role. But it’s the behind-the-scenes gossip from the set that has set tongues wagging!

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The movie’s US R-rating didn’t come without a fight – from 72-year-old Elton himself!

“He was adamant if it was to be a true account, then sex, drugs, rock’n’roll and a whole lot of nudity was essential,” reveals an insider. “Paramount Pictures wanted it to be familyfriendly, but Elton was fuming when it was suggested they tone down the gay love scenes.”

The singer got his way in the end, with an intimate scene between Elton and his former lover and manager John Reid – played by Bodyguard’s Richard Madden – making the final cut.

Known for his flamboyance, the singer also got what he wanted when it came to the film’s promotional tour.

“Put it this way, his Cannes trip costs hundreds of thousands,” dishes our source.

Some stars stayed at the pricey InterContinental Carlton Cannes Hotel – where the video for Elton’s hit I’m Still Standing was filmed – but the musician reportedly brought with him “three assistants, three nannies and 40 musical crew members”.