Baz Luhrmann Reveals Even Elvis and Mick Jagger Battled Stage Fright

The director's new Elvis concert film 'EPiC' showcases the King's surprising vulnerability.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Acclaimed director Baz Luhrmann, known for films like 'Moulin Rouge!' and the recent Elvis biopic, is back with a new project that combines long-lost performance footage and interviews with the King of Rock and Roll. Luhrmann reveals that even the most legendary performers like Elvis Presley and Mick Jagger experienced crippling stage fright, despite their larger-than-life personas on stage.

Why it matters

Luhrmann's insights shed light on the inner turmoil and vulnerability that can plague even the most successful and confident performers. This provides a more nuanced understanding of the pressures and anxieties that come with being a global superstar.

The details

Luhrmann says he's worked with many of the greatest artists of all time, and they all share a common trait - a bit of nervousness before taking the stage. He recalls working with Mick Jagger at the Grammys, where Jagger asked Luhrmann 'How was I?' after receiving a standing ovation, revealing the insecurity even rock icons can feel. Luhrmann himself admits to having 'art fright' before premiering major projects like 'Moulin Rouge!', and notes that even Elvis star Austin Butler struggled with anxiety while portraying the King.

  • Luhrmann's new Elvis concert film 'EPiC' premiered at film festivals in early 2026.
  • 'EPiC' earned over $3.25 million from 325 IMAX locations over its opening weekend in February 2026, ahead of a wider theatrical release.

The players

Baz Luhrmann

An acclaimed film director known for movies like 'Moulin Rouge!' and the recent Elvis biopic, who is now behind the new concert film 'EPiC' showcasing long-lost Elvis Presley footage.

Elvis Presley

The legendary 'King of Rock and Roll' who surprisingly battled stage fright, despite his iconic on-stage persona.

Mick Jagger

The legendary frontman of the Rolling Stones, who also experienced stage fright according to Luhrmann's accounts.

Austin Butler

The actor who portrayed Elvis Presley in Luhrmann's 2022 biopic, and struggled with anxiety while taking on the role.

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What they’re saying

“I have art fright for everything I ever make: 'A can-can movie? Who could care about that?'”

— Baz Luhrmann, Director (Page Six)

“I didn't sleep for two years... I would wake up at three or four in the morning every day in terror.”

— Austin Butler (Page Six)

“Even right now, I'm doing everything I can to try and get people in to see the movie!”

— Baz Luhrmann, Director (Page Six)

What’s next

Luhrmann says he believes Elvis Presley will 'never quite leave my building', and he hopes to continue working on more projects that showcase the King's legacy on the big screen.

The takeaway

Luhrmann's insights reveal the surprising vulnerability and stage fright that can afflict even the most legendary and confident performers, providing a more nuanced understanding of the pressures of superstardom.