Ringo Starr Confirms Barry Keoghan for Beatles Biopic
Ringo Starr, the legendary Beatles drummer, has seemingly confirmed the casting of Irish actor Barry Keoghan to portray him in Sam Mendes's highly anticipated four-part Beatles biopic. The news sent ripples through the entertainment world, confirming long-standing rumors and sparking excitement among fans. In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Starr stated, “Well, I think it’s great, and I believe he’s somewhere taking drum lessons, and I hope not too many.” This seemingly casual remark has been interpreted as confirmation of Keoghan's involvement in the project.
The All-Star Cast
The project promises to be a star-studded affair. While Keoghan's casting as Ringo is the latest confirmed news, other rumored roles have generated significant buzz. Paul Mescal, the rising star of Normal People and Gladiator II, is heavily rumored to portray Paul McCartney. Meanwhile, Harris Dickinson, known for his roles in Triangle of Sadness and The King's Man, is speculated to play John Lennon. The role of George Harrison is reported to be played by Joseph Quinn, known for Stranger Things and Catherine the Great. The potential ensemble is impressive, bringing together established and rising stars.
The Scope of the Project
Director Sam Mendes, celebrated for films like American Beauty and 1917, has ambitious plans for this project. The biopic will consist of four separate films, each dedicated to one member of the Fab Four. The films will be made using the full life story and music rights that have been provided by the surviving band members (Starr and Paul McCartney) and families of the deceased, including John Lennon and George Harrison’s estates. This unprecedented access to the band’s personal archives and musical legacy promises an intimate and comprehensive portrayal of their lives and careers. Mendes’s vision is to tell “the story of the greatest rock band of all time,” challenging the typical conventions of biographical filmmaking.
Barry Keoghan's Meteoric Rise
Keoghan’s casting is a testament to his exceptional talent and rapid rise to fame. The actor, known for his intensity and versatility, has delivered memorable performances in several high-profile films, including Dunkirk, The Killing of a Sacred Deer, and The Banshees of Inisherin, for which he received an Academy Award nomination. His critically acclaimed role in Saltburn has further solidified his position as a leading actor. The Oscar-nominated actor’s recent roles include Andrea Arnold’s Bird, and he is leading the upcoming Irish thriller, Bring Them Down, set for release in February. This diverse range of projects suggests he's equipped to bring depth and complexity to the role of Ringo Starr, capturing both the musician's playful spirit and his more introspective side.
A Unique Take on Ringo
Keoghan’s unconventional screen persona, often marked by a mix of humor and darkness, is a perfect match for the nuanced nature of Ringo Starr. The actor has often showcased his talent for playing characters who are humorous and self-aware with a degree of hidden darkness. Keoghan's ability to blend these aspects makes him an intriguing choice to portray Ringo, a member of the band often viewed as the most down-to-earth, yet known for an understated kind of wit and vulnerability. The casting certainly adds an element of surprise and creative potential to the project.
The Beatles' Enduring Legacy
The Beatles’ music and cultural impact remain unparalleled. This new biopic series represents the first time that the band's full life story and music has been given the go-ahead for a scripted adaptation. The project aims to capture the band's journey through their individual perspectives. The involvement of Starr himself adds a level of authenticity and personal insight that is expected to make this biopic a must-see for music enthusiasts and film lovers alike. The films have been granted full life story and music rights from Apple Corps Ltd, the Beatles, and the families of Lennon and Harrison, this signifies a significant event in Beatles history, marking a new chapter in how their legacy is shared with the world. The movies are scheduled for release in 2027.
A Drumming Debut?
Starr's playful comment about Keoghan taking drum lessons adds another layer of anticipation. It suggests that Keoghan might be undertaking some serious preparation for the role, aiming to capture the essence of Ringo’s drumming style. Whether the lessons are truly extensive or just a playful nod to the role remains to be seen. The prospect of Keoghan embodying Ringo’s musical talent, alongside his personality, adds to the intrigue surrounding the project.
The Final Beat
The upcoming Beatles biopic promises a unique and insightful look at the lives and careers of one of history's most iconic bands. The involvement of Sam Mendes, a renowned director known for his visual storytelling and the rumoured star-studded cast and the blessing of the surviving Beatles themselves makes the production one of the most anticipated movies of the next few years. The confirmation of Barry Keoghan’s casting as Ringo Starr has only heightened expectations. This project is set to deliver a compelling narrative, a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences worldwide. The project is set for release in 2027.
