Authorized Def Leppard Documentary Coming to Theaters in Early 2027

A Definitive Cinematic Account

Bleecker Street's event cinema division, Crosswalk, has acquired the North American rights to "Long Live Def Leppard," a film described as a complete and all-access account of the band's journey. Directed by Jeff Feuerzeig, known for The Devil And Daniel Johnston and Author: The JT LeRoy Story, the documentary was produced in close collaboration with the members of Def Leppard. The production promises to take fans into the world of the iconic English rock group using never-before-seen footage and unparalleled access to its members.

The film chronicles the band's evolution from its humble beginnings as schoolmates in working-class Sheffield to its status as a global phenomenon. With more than 110 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious diamond awards in the U.S., the band has maintained a lasting impact on Hard Rock music. The documentary explores the "unbreakable brotherhood" of the group as they navigated massive success with hit albums such as Pyromania and Hysteria, as well as the profound tragedies that defined their history.

Overcoming Tragedy and Building a Legacy

The narrative of "Long Live Def Leppard" focuses on two devastating chapters in the band's career: drummer Rick Allen's life-altering accident, which resulted in the loss of his arm, and the death of guitarist Steve Clark. The film highlights how the band rebuilt itself following these events, eventually being inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Today, the group continues to sell out stadiums and arenas globally, recently completing a sold-out residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

The documentary features new interviews with the five current longtime members: singer Joe Elliott, guitarists Phil Collen and Vivian Campbell, drummer Rick Allen, and bassist Rick Savage. Director Jeff Feuerzeig, who also served as a writer and producer for the project, expressed a deep personal connection to the band's story.

"In the summer of '81, after reading about DEF LEPPARD in Creem, I saw the not-yet-famous band open for Ozzy Osbourne on his first 'Blizzard Of Ozz' tour at Asbury Park's Convention Hall. These young lads from working-class Sheffield were punching far above their weight and playing for keeps. I was smitten, a fan for life. It has been an honor to collaborate with the guys and bring their unique, heartwarming, and often humorous underdog story to the screen. This is not your typical sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll tale. Long live DEF LEPPARD, indeed!"

— Jeff Feuerzeig

Production and Distribution Details

The film was produced by Feuerzeig alongside Alice Rhodes and Sam Bridger for VICE Studios, Nicholas Ferrall and Jeanne Elfant Festa of White Horse Pictures, Danny Gabai of The Searchers Documentary Films, and Brian T. Nugent of Sobey Road Entertainment. A large team of executive producers includes Nigel Sinclair and Cassidy Hartmann of White Horse Pictures; Stuart Goldstein and Rosie Taylor of VICE Studios; Andrew Trapani of Sobey Road Entertainment; and several representatives from Universal Music Group, Primary Wave Music, Sony Music Publishing, and CSM Management.

Bleecker Street CEO Kent Sanderson noted that the band's story and live performances are suited for the big screen:

"DEF LEPPARD is a once in a lifetime rock band, whose story and live performances demand to be seen and heard on the big screen. Longtime fans and those just being introduced to the group are going to be blown away by this high energy, compelling, and ultimately moving look into this legendary band."

— Kent Sanderson

Director Jeff Feuerzeig brings a distinguished background to the project. His feature The Devil And Daniel Johnston won the Documentary Directing Award at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival and was named "the best music documentary of the 21st century" by Indiewire. His other credits include The Real Rocky for ESPN’s "30 For 30" and episodes of Mike Judge Presents: Tales From The Tour Bus.

Crosswalk continues its focus on immersive cinematic experiences following the success of Hadestown: The Musical, which grossed over $20 million domestically. The company is also preparing to release George Michael: The Faith Tour in theaters and IMAX on December 11. Bleecker Street’s upcoming slate includes Alex Gibney’s Musk, Anton Corbijn’s A Talent For Murder starring Helen Mirren, and Guy Nattiv’s The Liberation, which is set for an awards qualifying run in 2026.