Michael Stipe has offered a playful suggestion regarding who might portray him in a future R.E.M. biopic. During a recent appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, the conversation turned to the current trend of musician-focused films, prompting host Stephen Colbert to weigh in on potential casting choices.

While Colbert jokingly proposed that David Cross would be a natural fit for the bearded, modern-day version of the singer, the pair began to deliberate on who could capture the essence of a younger Stipe. “Maybe Billie Eilish could do it,” Stipe suggested. Colbert quickly agreed, noting, “You guys got similar blue eyes there.”

When asked if the two had ever crossed paths, Stipe shared a brief, charming anecdote about a chance encounter at a Manhattan restaurant. He recalled that Eilish had held a door open for him, noting, “She’s incredibly polite and sweet, but I didn’t know who she was until she was down the street.”

Beyond the lighthearted casting discussion, Stipe provided updates on his long-awaited solo debut. He described the creative process behind the record, including a track inspired by the sound of a tree being played back to itself, which he likened to a blend of Daft Punk and a traditional sea shanty. The singer also treated the audience to a live debut of his new song, ‘The Rest Of Ever’.

Stipe has been working on the project for several years and, despite acknowledging that the process has taken longer than anticipated, he confirmed that he is currently adding the finishing touches. The album is expected to arrive in 2026.

The legendary frontman remains on excellent terms with his former bandmates—Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Bill Berry. The group famously reunited in the summer of 2024 for their induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, where they delivered a surprise acoustic performance of their 1991 classic, ‘Losing My Religion’.