Recent reports indicate that Nick Jonas is in “final talks” to portray legendary KISS frontman Paul Stanley in the upcoming biopic titled Shout It Out Loud. The film, directed by McG (known for Charlie’s Angels and Terminator Salvation), will focus on the formation and early years of the iconic rock band, known for their hard rock anthems, distinctive makeup, and flamboyant stage shows. Production is slated for late 2025 or early 2026.
Nick Jonas: He Can Pop, But Can He Rock?
This casting choice has generated considerable buzz. While Nick Jonas is primarily recognized as a pop star and a member of the Jonas Brothers, he has a growing acting resume, including roles in the Jumanji reboots and Broadway productions. The reports suggest that Jonas will perform his own vocals in the film, though he will undergo vocal training to emulate Stanley’s distinctive voice and style. This presents a unique challenge for Jonas, bridging his pop sensibility with the raw, theatrical energy of a rock icon.
Shout It Out Loud is set to chronicle the journey of Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, from their unlikely friendship in Queens, New York, to the formation of KISS with Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. The biopic is expected to cover the band’s formative years, leading up to significant moments like their pivotal 1975 performance at Cadillac High in Michigan. Both Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons are reportedly involved in the film’s production, serving as producers, which suggests a desire for an authentic portrayal of their story.
The film has been in development for several years, with initial reports dating back to 2021 when it was slated for Netflix with a different director. Now, STX Entertainment is fully financing the project, and the script’s latest draft has been penned by Darren Lemke. The role of Gene Simmons and the other original band members has yet to be cast, adding another layer of anticipation for fans and industry observers alike.
Nick Jonas taking on the persona of Paul Stanley, or “Starchild,” will require a significant transformation. Beyond the vocal performance, capturing Stanley’s stage presence- his charismatic banter, signature moves, and the sheer theatricality of KISS- will be crucial. This role offers Jonas a chance to further showcase his range as an actor and singer, delving into a genre and a character far removed from his established image. The success of Shout It Out Loud will largely depend on its ability to encapsulate the raw energy, cultural impact, and unique dynamic that made KISS a global phenomenon, and Nick Jonas’s portrayal of Paul Stanley will undoubtedly be at the heart of that endeavor.
The news of Nick Jonas taking on the role of Paul Stanley in Shout It Out Loud has ignited discussions among both KISS fans and broader movie audiences. While Jonas’s pop background might seem an unconventional choice for a rock icon, his extensive experience in musical theater, including playing Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys Live and roles in numerous Broadway productions, suggests a strong foundation for a performance that blends singing and acting. This experience will be vital in embodying Stanley’s dynamic stage persona and powerful “Starchild” vocals.
The involvement of Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons as producers adds an intriguing layer to the production. Their direct input implies a desire for authenticity, which could both reassure and challenge fans. It raises questions about how much of the band’s sometimes tumultuous internal dynamics will be explored, especially concerning the departures of Ace Frehley and Peter Criss, whose roles are yet to be cast. The film’s focus on the early years, leading up to the Cadillac High concert, promises to offer a raw look at the band’s formation and their ascent from gritty New York City clubs to arena-filling spectacles, marked by their groundbreaking makeup, pyrotechnics, and theatricality.
