Netflix Set to Release a Biopic on the Life and Career of Rick Savage: “We Are Happy to Announce That We Are Done with Production and It Will Be Released on”

*April 20, 2025* — Get ready to turn up the volume—Netflix has officially announced the upcoming release of its highly anticipated biopic on Rick Savage, the legendary bassist and founding member of Def Leppard. After months of speculation and behind-the-scenes buzz, the streaming giant confirmed that production is complete and the film is set to premiere globally on **August 30, 2025**.

 

Titled *”Savage: The Rick Savage Story”*, the biopic chronicles the extraordinary life, trials, and triumphs of one of rock’s most enduring and iconic figures. From his humble beginnings in Sheffield, England to worldwide stardom with one of the biggest rock bands of the ‘80s and ‘90s, the film promises a raw, emotional, and electrifying look at the man behind the music.

 

Netflix made the announcement via a teaser trailer and press release early this morning, with Rick Savage himself posting to social media shortly after: “This film tells the story of my life—warts and all. I’m proud of what we’ve created, and I can’t wait for fans around the world to see it.”

 

**A Story Worthy of Stadiums**

 

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Joe Wright (*Darkest Hour*, *Atonement*) and produced in collaboration with the Savage family and Def Leppard’s longtime management team, the film delves deep into Rick’s journey—from teenage dreams of rock superstardom to personal battles with fame, loss, and addiction.

 

The biopic highlights key moments in Savage’s life: the formation of Def Leppard in the late 1970s, the band’s meteoric rise during the 1980s glam rock explosion, and the tragic accident that cost drummer Rick Allen his arm. It also addresses the death of guitarist Steve Clark and how Savage and the band kept pushing forward in the face of adversity.

 

British actor *George MacKay* (known for *1917*) takes on the lead role of Rick Savage, and early reviews from private screenings are already praising his performance as “captivating” and “brutally honest.” The film also features *Aaron Taylor-Johnson* as Joe Elliott and *Nicholas Hoult* as Steve Clark, capturing the chemistry, tension, and brotherhood that defined Def Leppard’s legacy.

 

**Behind the Music, Beyond the Fame**

 

What makes *Savage* unique is its focus on the man behind the bass. The film doesn’t just retell the band’s history—it dives into Rick’s personal struggles: the toll of relentless touring, the pressures of staying relevant in a changing music industry, and the emotional weight of losing close friends and bandmates along the way.

 

“We didn’t want to make a sanitized rock movie,” director Joe Wright said during a Netflix panel. “This is a story about perseverance, loyalty, and what it means to survive success. Rick’s journey is inspiring not just because of his fame, but because of his humanity.”

 

The soundtrack is expected to feature a mix of original Def Leppard hits—such as *Pour Some Sugar on Me*, *Photograph*, and *Hysteria*—alongside never-before-heard solo recordings and acoustic versions of classics performed by MacKay himself.

 

**Fans and Critics Already Buzzing**

 

News of the film has sparked major excitement in the rock community. Longtime fans of Def Leppard, still energized from the band’s successful world tours with Mötley Crüe and Poison, have taken to social media to express their anticipation.

 

“About time Rick Savage got the spotlight,” one fan tweeted. “He’s the glue of the band. Can’t wait for this!”

 

Netflix is planning a major promotional push leading up to the release, including exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with Rick and the cast, and a live Q&A event on premiere night.

 

**The Final Word**

 

Rick Savage has always been a steady force in the storm that is rock ‘n’ roll. Quietly charismatic, deeply loyal, and endlessly talented, he’s a man whose story deserves to be told—and *Savage* is shaping up to be the definitive portrait of his remarkable life.

 

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Def Leppard or just discovering their music for the first time, this is a must-watch film that captures the soul of an era and the heart of a survivor.

 

**”Savage: The Rick Savage Story”** drops exclusively on Netflix on **August 30, 2025**—mark your calendars, because this ride through rock history is one you won’t want to miss.