The Hollywood Reporter is exclusively reporting that Trick Candle Productions are developing a biopic about John Larkin, who is better known by his stage name Scatman John.

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John Larkin, aka Scatman John, is best known for his hits ‘Scatman (Ski-Ba-Bop-Ba-Dop-Bop)’ and ‘Scatman’s World’, with the former in particular being hugely popular across the world, especially Europe, upon its release in 1995.

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The film, which is being written by Stephen Basilone and Annie Mebane, will detail Jon Larkin’s struggles with being a lifelong stutterer, bullying, abuse at home, and his battles with drug addiction and alcoholism. However, after meeting the love of his life in rehab, he conquered his addictions and became an overnight sensation as Scatman John at the age of 53. Scatman John would end up obtaining 14 gold records and 18 platinum records. In 1999, John Larkin passed away from cancer.

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Steve Valentine released a statement saying:

Today, more than ever, John’s message resonates and needs to be heard. He was a true legend, tearing down barriers that would have deterred many from attempting to accomplish their dreams. We are excited to work on this project with Lee, and are honored to be bringing Scatman John’s story to the big screen.

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This biopic will include access to the entire Scatman John music library, as well as private home videos, with the biopic said to chronicle his ‘wild life and positive influence’. The deal was brokered by Steve Valentine, alongside Trick Candle Productions founder Tom Malloy, with Lee Newman, Larkin’s stepson, who handles the Scatman estate. Manfred Zahringer, Scatman John’s manager, who serve as producer alongside Malloy, Valentine and Newman.