Rocketman: Director of Elton John biopic dismisses claim that nude scene has been censored

Film is scheduled for release on 24 May

Rocketman director Dexter Fletcher has refuted claims that a nude scene between Taron Egerton, who plays Elton John, and Richard Madden (playing John’s former manager John Reid) has been cut from the film.

Fletcher is currently editing the musical biopic, which is scheduled for release in the UK on 24 May.

A report in the Daily Mail claimed that Paramount was pressuring filmmakers to cut at least part of the scene to avoid it being handed a higher audience rating.

Despite the scene apparently only showing the characters in bed together, Paramount was said to find it racy enough to rule out a PG 13 rating in the US (equivalent to a British 12A).

However, John was previously reported to have said that nothing should be off-limits in this authorised life story, telling the film-makers to “tell it all. Go as R-rated as you need to.”

“Seeing much speculation about ROCKETMAN!!” Fletcher tweeted. “That’s good! It’s still unfinished so it’s nothing but rumours. It has and always will be the no holds barred, musical fantasy that Paramount and producers passionately support and believe in. See for yourself May 24. Dx x.”

Fletcher’s last role as director was to step in for the final three weeks of principal production on Bohemian Rhapsody, after Fox fired Bryan Singer.

The film was controversial as many critics believed it did not spend enough time on the details of Freddie Mercury’s sexuality and personal life.

Rocketman explores John’s childhood, his time as a student at the Royal Academy of Music, his friendship with writing partner Bernie Taupin (Jamie Bell) and his acceptance of his sexuality.

The film’s producers, including Matthew Vaughn, said they envisioned it as a grittier portrayal of the singer, with his sexuality explored in depth.

Egerton recently explained the narrative that the film follows, telling Digital Spy that the “Crocodile Rock” singer gave him permission to show off the “ugly” side of Elton John.

“It's right at the heart of what makes Rocketman quite special because Elton gave me the licence to go and make him look quite ugly at times, that was always very important to me,” Egerton said.