Def Leppard has announced Long Live Def Leppard, the band’s first authorized feature-length documentary, which is scheduled to arrive in North American theaters in early 2027!
The film will chronicle Def Leppard’s journey from its working-class roots in Sheffield, England, to global rock stardom. It will cover the group’s early rise, landmark albums such as Pyromania and Hysteria, personal tragedy, and the resilience that has kept the band performing for generations.
A career-spanning Def Leppard documentary
Long Live Def Leppard is being directed by filmmaker Jeff Feuerzeig (past work includes The Devil and Daniel Johnston and The Real Rocky). The documentary is described as an authorized, career-spanning film made with close involvement from the band.
Statement from Feuerzeig:
“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 & roll tale. Long live Def Leppard, indeed!”
The production promises previously unseen footage and a new perspective on the band, according to Variety. It will also feature new interviews with current band members.
The documentary will reportedly trace the band’s defining moments, including drummer Rick Allen’s recovery after losing his arm in a car accident and the loss of guitarist Steve Clark.
When is Long Live Def Leppard documentary coming out?
Bleecker Street’s event-cinema division Crosswalk has acquired North American theatrical rights to Long Live Def Leppard. The current release window is early 2027.
Statement from Bleecker Street CEO Kent Sanderson:
“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.”
An exact release date, theater locations, ticket information, trailer, runtime, and streaming plans have not been announced yet. (International release details have also not been confirmed.)
In the meantime, if you really want to indulge in Def Leppard, check out the new second edition of this must-read book!
