Elton John Sells ‘Yellow Brick Road’ Rights To Disney+

Disney+ is set to release a new documentary on Elton John with a working title of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road: The Final Elton John Performances and The Years That Made His Legend.”

The legendary singer has been part of the Disney family since 1994, when his music for “The Lion King” became a massive hit. Now, the rights of the documentary were sold to Disney+ for an estimated $30 million.

The film will feature some unseen concert footage from the past 50 years of the singer’s career, some modern-day footage of John and his family, and a look at his hand-written journals. It will also cover a special look at the first five years of the icon’s success, including the time he scored seven No. 1 albums and became a global superstar.

Directed by R.J. Cutler, who also directed “Billie Eilish: The World’s A Little Blurry,” “BELUSHI,” “The War Room,” “The September Issue,” “A Perfect Candidate” and “The World According to Dick Cheney.” John’s documentary will have a limited theatrical run and will also screen at festivals ahead of its arrival on Disney+.

Cutler said in a statement:

“What a thrill and an honor it is that David Furnish and I get to create this intimate and unique look at one of the world’s most celebrated artists. … Elton John’s music has had deep meaning for me for decades, and this opportunity is nothing short of a career highlight and privilege.”

John’s husband and manager, David Furnish, is a producer on the project. He said in a press release:

“Elton and I could not think of a better collaborator than R.J. Cutler for a film that represents more than just Elton’s career. It’s his life, from the Troubadour to Dodger Stadium. We knew that R.J. would help guide Elton’s story and its many layers in a way that feels authentic and evocative. We’re ecstatic to be working together.”

John’s last months on the road for his farewell tour will also be included in the film. The tour was postponed due to COVID and some health issues, but is currently set to wrap up in July 2023, with the final U.S. date scheduled for Nov. 11 this year at Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium.