Robbie Williams is back in the spotlight, and this time, it’s not just for his music. His new song, “Forbidden Road,” which was featured in his biopic Better Man, faced a hiccup when it was disqualified from the Oscars shortlist. But instead of letting it get him down, Williams took the news in stride, showing off his trademark humor and resilience.
The Biopic That Sparked It All
Williams’ biopic, Better Man, premiered globally in December 2024, showcasing his incredible journey from a member of Take That to becoming a solo star. The film, interestingly, features a CGI monkey portraying Williams, a creative twist that has sparked both curiosity and laughter among fans and critics alike. The film does not shy away from Williams’ battles with addiction, recovery, and the ups and downs of fame, with touches of humor and emotion woven throughout.
‘Forbidden Road’ Gets Caught in Controversy
While the film has received mixed reviews, one of its highlights was supposed to be the song “Forbidden Road.” Unfortunately, this song was disqualified from Oscar consideration due to allegations of plagiarism. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences noted that it bore similarities to Jim Croce’s 1973 song, “I Got a Name.” Despite this setback, Williams has expressed his appreciation for the Oscars’ rules, stating, “the rules are rules,” and he accepts the decision with grace.
Keeping the Spirit Up
At the Golden Globes, where Williams was also nominated for best original song, he showcased his good-humored personality, joking about how he was glad to avoid another Oscar-party event. Despite the outcome for “Forbidden Road,” the song still has a chance at a Golden Globe, and Williams is looking forward to what the future holds. He remarked, ‘It’s all good,’ demonstrating his positive attitude in the face of challenges.
Upcoming Plans and New Beginnings
Despite the drama surrounding this song, Robbie Williams is not slowing down. He is gearing up for a major European tour set for later in 2025, and fans are eagerly anticipating his new album, on which he’s collaborating with rock great Tony Iommi. The excitement for his return to music is palpable among fans who can’t wait to hear what he has in store. With hit songs like “Angels” and “Rock DJ” in his catalog, it’s no surprise that Williams remains a beloved figure in pop culture.
The Response from Fans
Fans of Robbie Williams have shown unyielding support despite the disqualification. Many took to social media to express their love for him, emphasizing how his music has impacted their lives. Williams’ ability to bounce back after setbacks is what keeps his audience rooting for him. They appreciate his authenticity, humor, and relatability, which make him not just a pop star but a real person with real emotions.
| Event | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Biopic Premiere | December 2024 | Features CGI monkey portraying Williams. |
| Golden Globe Nominations | January 2025 | Includes “Forbidden Road.” |
| European Tour | Later in 2025 | Details to be announced. |
A Bright Future Ahead
Robbie Williams continues to prove that his spirit is unbroken. Even with the ups and downs in his musical journey and the unexpected twists of the Oscars, he remains focused on what he loves most—creating music and engaging with his fans. As the world braces for his biopic’s wider release in January and anticipation builds for his tour and new music, it is clear that Williams’ story is far from over, and his fans can expect plenty more delightful surprises along the way.