It’s not every day that actors have the chance to connect with the legends they portray, but Barry Keoghan (Saltburn) recently enjoyed an unforgettable encounter with none other than Ringo Starr. This exciting opportunity comes as Keoghan prepares to embody the iconic drummer in the upcoming Sam Mendes film, The Beatles — A Four Film Cinematic Event. Joining him in this star-studded lineup are Harris Dickinson (Babygirl) as John Lennon, Paul Mescal (Gladiator II) as Paul McCartney, and Joseph Quinn (The Fantastic Four: First Steps) as George Harrison.
During a guest appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Keoghan shared his awe at meeting Starr shortly after landing the role. He described the experience vividly: “It was one of those moments where you’re just in awe and just froze.” He added, “When I was talking to him, I couldn’t look at him. I was nervous, like right now. He said, ‘You can look at me.’” Playing Ringo Starr, he emphasized his goal: “I want to humanize him and bring feelings to him, not just sort of imitate him.”
In an adorable twist, Keoghan revealed that Starr even played a few drum beats for him during their meeting. However, he humorously declined to reciprocate, stating, “He asked me to play, but I wasn’t playing the drums for Ringo.” And honestly, who could blame him?
Sam Mendes’ production banner, Neal Street Productions, is collaborating with Sony Pictures Entertainment to bring this ambitious project to life. Notably, this marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and surviving members of The Beatles—Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, alongside the families of John Lennon and George Harrison—have granted comprehensive life story and music rights for a scripted film. Mendes will direct all four movies, each offering a distinct look into the lives of the legendary band members.
At CinemaCon last month, Mendes officially introduced the cast, explaining his long-standing desire to create a Beatles film. He shared, “I had been trying to do a [Beatles] film for years” but ultimately realized “the story was too big for one film.” His assertion that a TV series wouldn’t capture the essence is compelling, as he concluded, “There had to be a way to tell the epic story for a new generation…I think we found a way to do that.”
Mark your calendars: The Beatles — A Four Film Cinematic Event is set to premiere in April 2028. Excitement is certainly building as fans eagerly anticipate this epic cinematic journey into the lives of The Beatles!
