A new documentary titled *Billy Idol Should Be Dead* hit theaters in the U.S. and Canada on February 26. Directed by Jonas Åkerlund and produced by Live Nation Studios, the film explores Billy Idol’s journey through London’s punk scene, his rise to fame on MTV, and his near brushes with death.
The documentary premiered at the Tribeca Festival last summer before its nationwide release. It first screened in Los Angeles at the TCL Chinese Theatre on February 23, followed by a showing in New York at Regal Union Square on February 25.
Fans can expect never-before-seen archival footage and interviews with Idol himself. His family, friends, and collaborators also share their insights. Notable appearances include Miley Cyrus, Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day, and Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses. Pete Townshend from The Who and Sex Pistols members Steve Jones and Paul Cook also contribute their thoughts.
The trailer opens with a vintage interview where Idol jokingly says he would spend his music earnings on drugs. The film dives into his transformation from a punk rocker to a global superstar during MTV’s peak, highlighting the struggles he faced to survive in the music industry.
An original song titled “(insert song title)” features prominently in the documentary. Idol co-wrote it with Steve Stevens, Tommy English, Joe Janiak, and J. Ralph. The track is on the shortlist for Best Original Song at the 98th Academy Awards.
Billy Idol recently released his first full-length album in over a decade, *Dream Into It*, through Dark Horse Records. The album reached No. 7 on the U.S. Top Albums Chart and No. 4 on the U.S. Current Rock Album Chart.
For screening times and tickets, check your local listings.
