Robbie Williams has taken the disqualification of his song “Forbidden Road” from the Oscars in stride. The track was written for his upcoming biopic, “Better Man,” but was removed from consideration for Best Original Song due to its inclusion of elements from the existing song “I Got a Name” by Jim Croce, which is against the Academy’s strict eligibility rules requiring original compositions.
During the Golden Globes, Williams addressed the decision, expressing his understanding of the rules. He humorously remarked, “It would have been nice — but also, as an introvert, it’s another party I don’t have to go to.” He emphasized his positive outlook, saying, “I went through it, I’m on the other side, it’s all good.”
While “Forbidden Road” was not eligible for the Oscars, it has retained its nomination for Best Original Song at the Golden Globes, though it ultimately lost to “El Mal” from Emilia Pérez. “Better Man” premiered in select theaters on Christmas and is set for a broader release on January 17, 2025. The film, directed by Michael Gracey, presents a unique twist on the traditional pop star biopic by featuring a CGI-animated chimpanzee in place of Williams, who remains the voice of his character.
Despite the setback, Williams’ ability to maintain a positive attitude and his continued success at the Golden Globes illustrate a resilient spirit both personally and professionally.
This incident is a reminder of the competitiveness and intricacies of the awards circuit, but it also highlights the importance of creativity in storytelling, as demonstrated in “Better Man.” Fans can look forward to experiencing this innovative approach when the film is released to a wider audience.