Steven Van Zandt, the legendary guitarist of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, has enthusiastically endorsed Jeremy Allen White’s performance as Springsteen in the new biopic ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere,’ describing it as incredible and predicting it could be the movie of the year with Oscar potential. His comments, made in an exclusive interview, highlight the emotional depth and universal appeal of the film, which is set to release imminently.
Van Zandt shared his praise during a conversation with TMZ in New York City, where he emphasized that White’s portrayal is one of the most moving he has ever witnessed on screen. He noted that the acting is so powerful that even viewers unfamiliar with Springsteen’s life story will find it profoundly affecting, underscoring the film’s ability to transcend fan bases and connect with a broader audience. This endorsement comes from a trusted insider who has collaborated closely with Springsteen for decades, adding significant credibility to the assessment.
The biopic, ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere,’ focuses on the creation of Springsteen’s 1982 album ‘Nebraska’ and concludes with the monumental success of ‘Born in the U.S.A.,’ capturing a transformative period in the artist’s career. This era marked Springsteen’s shift from introspective, stripped-down recordings to international fame, and the film delves into the creative challenges and breakthroughs that defined this journey. Van Zandt, who is portrayed by Johnny Cannizzaro in the movie, praised the filmmakers for their authentic depiction of these events, which he believes will resonate deeply with audiences.
Jeremy Allen White, acclaimed for his role in ‘The Bear,’ undertook intensive preparation to embody Springsteen, including mastering his vocal nuances and physical mannerisms. Van Zandt observed that White’s commitment is evident throughout the film, resulting in a performance that feels both genuine and respectful of Springsteen’s legacy. The casting of other key figures, such as manager Jon Landau, further enhances the narrative’s authenticity, providing a comprehensive look at the people who shaped Springsteen’s career during this pivotal time.
Van Zandt’s support is particularly meaningful given his long-standing role in Springsteen’s inner circle, offering an expert perspective on the film’s accuracy and emotional impact. He commended Disney and the production team for bringing this story to life, suggesting that it offers unique insights into Springsteen’s creative process and personal struggles. The movie’s approach to blending music history with human drama aims to educate and entertain, making it accessible to both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.
In his interview, Van Zandt humorously advised moviegoers to bring tissues, noting the film’s capacity to evoke strong emotions through its storytelling and performances. He also used the platform to promote his foundation, TeachRock.org, which integrates music education into schools, linking the film’s themes to broader cultural and educational initiatives. His enthusiastic backing not only boosts the film’s profile but also aligns it with efforts to celebrate music’s role in society.
With the release scheduled for October 24, 2025, Van Zandt’s predictions of Oscar recognition have generated considerable anticipation, positioning ‘Deliver Me From Nowhere’ as a potential standout in this year’s cinematic landscape. The combination of a compelling narrative, skilled acting, and endorsements from those closest to Springsteen suggests the film could achieve critical acclaim and commercial success. As audiences await its debut, Van Zandt’s insights offer a compelling preview of what may become a memorable addition to music biopics.