Former ‘Voice’ Coach Nick Jonas Set to Rock in New Biopic

From Disney Channel heartthrob to rock and roll legend—talk about a career transformation that nobody saw coming.

Nick Jonas is slated to portray KISS lead vocalist Paul Stanley in “Shout It Out Loud,” an upcoming biographical film chronicling the iconic rock band’s rise during the 1970s. The McG-directed project will begin filming either late 2025 or early 2026, with STX providing full financing for the production, according to Deadline.

The Jonas Brothers member faces the challenging task of replicating Stanley’s powerful vocal style, which means extensive training lies ahead. Jonas will perform his own singing throughout the film, requiring considerable preparation to master what the outlet describes as Stanley’s “jet-engine vocals.”

This casting represents a natural evolution for Jonas, who built his foundation in musical theater before achieving stardom in pop music. His Broadway background includes starring roles in “Les Misérables,” “Hairspray,” and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” as well as playing Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys Live.”

Beyond his musical credentials, Jonas has demonstrated serious acting abilities in projects such as the hazing drama “Goat” and the MMA series “Kingdom,” where he portrayed a gay fighter hiding his sexuality from an intimidating father. His upcoming projects include “Power Ballad” alongside Paul Rudd.

The Unlikely Rock Star’s Origin Story

“Shout It Out Loud” will explore how Stanley transformed from an insecure teenager into a rock icon despite facing personal challenges. The film promises to delve into Stanley’s remarkable journey from someone who felt like an outsider to becoming the face of one of rock’s most theatrical bands.

“I was deaf in one ear and had a slight deformity that made me look different,” Stanley once revealed, as quoted by Deadline. “I was this short, fat kid, and music became my salvation, a place to hide and dream. And when I played music, there were always girls around.”

The story will chronicle how Stanley partnered with Gene Simmons—a former Orthodox Jewish student who abandoned religious studies after becoming fascinated with rock culture—to create KISS alongside guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss. Their breakthrough came through adopting elaborate face paint and distinct stage personas that set them apart from other bands.

Star-Studded Production Team

McG is currently seeking an actor to play Simmons, the band’s fire-breathing bassist known for his theatrical stage presence. The director recently completed “Way of the Warrior Kid,” starring Chris Pratt for Apple TV+, bringing his extensive experience with action-oriented projects to this musical biography.

The film benefits from involvement by KISS members themselves, with both Stanley and Simmons serving as producers alongside industry veterans Mark Canton and Doc McGhee. Universal Music Publishing Group and Polygram Entertainment are backing the project, ensuring authentic access to the band’s catalog and legacy, according to Deadline.

KISS achieved legendary status through hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and eventually earned induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, cementing their position as one of rock’s most commercially successful acts.