Simon Cowell to adapt 'The Fifth Beatle' graphic novel for screen

Yes, that is a collection of things you wouldn't expect to form a headline.

The production company of music talent mogul, producer and TV ego Simon Cowell is set to co-produce an adaptation of the graphic novel The Fifth Beatle, based on the life of Beatle's manager Brian Epstein.

Word comes from Variety that IM Global and Cowell's Syco Entertainment will partner on a feature film with a script penned by The Fifth Beatle's author, Vivek J. Tiwary.

Released by Dark Horse in 2013, Tiwary's vibrant graphic novel tells the story of manager Epstein, from discovering The Beatles in 1961 in a tiny cellar gig in Liverpool to guiding them to international fame despite stifling odds and opposition.

More than a simple journey narrative of "the man who found The Beatles", The Fifth Beatle focuses on the struggles Epstein had to overcome during his career - which ended in tragedy when he died after a drug overdose in 1967 at the age of 32. The title nods to a quote of Paul McCartney, who said in 1997 that "...if anyone was the fifth Beatle, it was Brian".

"I have always been fascinated by Brian Epstein – and his story," Cowell said in a statement. "He played a huge role in the Beatles’ incredible success – and, I believe, remains the most talented manager ever. Yet his story has never been fully told. Also, like everyone across the world, I have so much respect for the Beatles and their music. So to be given the chance to be involved in this project was one I just could not pass up."

We'll bring you news of directors and casting as soon as they emerge from the depths of IM Global and Syco Entertainment discussions. 

(Images: Dark Horse/Rex)

[Via: Variety]