Paramount developing tenor's tale
Simon Cowell to produce Paul Potts film
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Simon Cowell, who created the show and as a judge was stunned by Potts' prowess, will produce the film with Relevant Entertainment's Michael Menchel and Steve Whitney.
Studio acquired life rights from Potts, who quickly recorded a debut album, "One Chance," that sold 3 million copies. He also is headlining 65 concert dates in 13 countries.
Known for his biting criticisms on "American Idol" and the other shows he produces through his U.K.-based production company SyCo, Cowell was sharpening his barbs when the shy Potts took the stage and announced his intention to sing opera.
"That particular day was one of the worst, the acts were just terrible, we were fed up and on comes this guy with a funny little suit and bad teeth who looked very nervous," Cowell told Daily Variety. "I can remember looking at the other judges, with that 'here we go again' feeling. We had 2,000 people in the audience, and I'll never forget how much the room changed when he began singing."
Menchel was shown Potts' performances via YouTube clips furnished by his daughters, and he called Cowell to suggest a movie. Paramount execs needed only to watch the YouTube clips to endorse the concept.
"Most of these calls result in absolutely nothing, but this company got that it's another 'Billy Elliot,' a story anyone in the world can understand," Cowell said. "This was his last chance, and he literally decided to enter based on the toss of a coin. And despite his success off the back of the show, the only difference I see in him is that he got his teeth fixed."
