Netflix Is Reportedly Developing a New Biopic Centered on the Life and Legacy of Legendary Guitarist Eric Clapton, Starring…

Netflix Developing Eric Clapton Biopic Starring George MacKay: What We Know So Far

Netflix is reportedly developing a new biopic centered on the life and legacy of legendary guitarist Eric Clapton. While the platform already offers the acclaimed 2017 documentary Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars, this upcoming project is a scripted dramatization, aiming to explore the emotional highs and lows of Clapton’s career. The streaming giant has tapped British actor George MacKay — known for his roles in 1917 and True History of the Kelly Gang — to portray the rock icon.

MacKay’s resemblance to a young Clapton is striking. With similar facial features, a lean frame, and expressive eyes, he’s a natural fit to play the guitar legend during his prime. According to insiders, MacKay has also been training extensively on the guitar to embody Clapton’s distinct playing style, reportedly going so far as to mimic his fingerpicking technique and signature posture on stage.

The biopic will trace Clapton’s early rise in the British blues scene, from The Yardbirds to Cream, through his turbulent solo years, including his battle with addiction and the tragic loss of his son. Netflix is said to be crafting a raw, character-driven script that doesn’t shy away from Clapton’s personal struggles, controversial views, and emotional complexities.

Unlike the documentary approach of Life in 12 Bars, this film will be performance-heavy, dramatizing key moments in Clapton’s life with full cinematic flair. Expect pivotal scenes set around the making of “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven,” and his legendary MTV Unplugged performance. The film has secured music rights, allowing MacKay to either lip-sync or re-record iconic tracks for maximum authenticity.

Behind the camera, Netflix is reportedly courting a director with a strong track record in musical biopics. No names have been officially confirmed, but the project is said to be under the guidance of producers who previously worked on Rocketman and Bohemian Rhapsody. That suggests a big-budget, emotionally resonant approach that leans heavily into performance and storytelling.

Some fans are already speculating about the film’s direction, particularly how it will handle Clapton’s controversial public remarks in the later stages of his career. Sources close to the production say the script focuses more on the “artist and his journey” rather than recent political commentary. The goal is to create a layered portrait, not a puff piece or hit job.

With George MacKay in the lead and Netflix’s deep pockets behind the scenes, the Clapton biopic has the potential to be one of the platform’s most compelling original films. If done right, it could appeal to longtime fans, younger music lovers, and anyone drawn to stories of talent, trauma, and redemption.

Production is expected to begin in late 2025, with a possible 2026 release. Until then, fans can stream Life in 12 Bars or dive into Clapton’s discography to revisit the music that shaped rock history. This new film could be the definitive cinematic take on one of the most complicated and influential guitarists of all time.