Billy Idol’s career showcased in new documentary, nominated for Rock Hall
A forthcoming documentary on Billy Idol is set to premiere on Hulu on March 26 following its recent theatrical release. Directed by Jonas Åkerlund, a three-time GRAMMY winner, the film delves into the punk pioneer’s tumultuous journey to fame through rare footage and candid conversations. Titled “Billy Idol Should Be Dead,” the documentary showcases Idol’s punk origins and meteoric rise during the peak of MTV’s dominance, drawing from unseen archives and featuring interviews with his family, peers in the music industry, and collaborators.
Notable figures such as Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong, Guns N’ Roses’ Duff McKagan, The Who’s Pete Townshend, and Miley Cyrus are featured in the documentary, shedding light on Idol’s enduring impact on the music scene. The film also introduces an original song titled “Dying To Live,” which plays a pivotal role in the documentary’s concluding moments, combining animation with archival footage from Idol’s extensive five-decade career. Collaborating with longtime musical partners Steve Stevens, Tommy English, and Joe Janiak, Idol showcases his artistic evolution and enduring relevance in the music industry.
In addition to the documentary, Billy Idol is currently a nominee for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year. Fans have the opportunity to cast their votes for the nominee starting from February 25 on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s official website. The nomination recognizes Idol’s significant contributions to the music industry, spanning from his formative years fronting Generation X from 1977 to 1981 to his successful solo career alongside guitarist Steve Stevens, marked by iconic hits like “Dancing With Myself,” “White Wedding,” “Rebel Yell,” “Eyes Without A Face,” and “Cradle of Love.”
In 2025, Billy Idol made a triumphant return to the music scene with the release of his first album in over a decade, “Dream Into It,” under Dark Horse Records. The album soared to No. 7 on the U.S. Top Albums Chart and No. 4 on the U.S. Current Rock Album Chart, reaffirming Idol’s enduring popularity and relevance in the music industry. He also embarked on a successful tour titled “It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again!” in 2025, captivating audiences across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America with electrifying performances. The tour featured special guests Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and New Model Army, further solidifying Idol’s status as a musical icon with a lasting impact on generations of music lovers.