James Norton & Saoirse Ronan Join Sam Mendes' Epic Beatles Movies!

The star-studded cast for Sam Mendes' groundbreaking four-film Beatles event just got even bigger! We're talking James Norton stepping into the iconic shoes of manager Brian Epstein, and Saoirse Ronan reuniting with Paul Mescal as Linda McCartney. This is huge, folks!

TL;DR

• James Norton will play Brian Epstein, The Beatles' legendary manager, in Sam Mendes' four biopics.
• Saoirse Ronan is cast as Linda McCartney, Paul McCartney's first wife, reuniting with her Foe co-star Paul Mescal.
• The ambitious four-film "cinematic event" will hit theaters in April 2028, telling the band's story from each member's perspective.

Unpacking the Latest Casting News for Sam Mendes' Beatles Saga

Alright, music and movie buffs, buckle up because the casting news for Sam Mendes' highly anticipated Beatles film project just keeps getting better. If you've been following along, you know this isn't just one movie, but a monumental four-part cinematic event, each film shining a light on a different member of the Fab Four. And now, two more incredible talents are joining the band's orbit: James Norton and Saoirse Ronan!

James Norton, known for his compelling performances in shows like Happy Valley and his recent turn in Bob Marley: One Love, is reportedly set to play none other than Brian Epstein. If you're a Beatles fan, you know Epstein was more than just a manager; he was often called "the fifth Beatle," instrumental in shaping their image and launching them to global superstardom. This is a crucial role, and Norton's selection adds another layer of excitement to an already stacked ensemble.

Adding to the star power, the brilliant Saoirse Ronan is reportedly taking on the role of Linda McCartney, Paul McCartney's first wife and musical collaborator. This news is especially sweet for fans who loved her on-screen chemistry with Paul Mescal in 2023's sci-fi drama Foe. Now, they'll be together again, bringing to life one of rock's most enduring relationships. With each film diving deep into a specific Beatle's journey, it's expected that Linda will feature prominently in Paul's story, offering a unique look at their life together.

The Fab Four and Their Expanding Universe of Talent

This "four-film cinematic event" is shaping up to be a true epic, and the cast playing the iconic band members themselves is already generating a ton of buzz. We've got:

• Paul Mescal as the charming and melodic Paul McCartney
• Harris Dickinson as the witty and revolutionary John Lennon
• Joseph Quinn as the spiritual and talented George Harrison
• Barry Keoghan as the steady and rhythmic Ringo Starr

Beyond the core four, the supporting cast is quickly filling out with an equally impressive lineup. Anna Sawai (from Shōgun) is set to portray Yoko Ono, and Mia McKenna-Bruce will appear as Ringo Starr's first wife, Maureen Starkey. There's also talk of Aimee Lou Wood (The White Lotus breakout) being in discussions to play Pattie Boyd, George Harrison's spouse. This collection of talent promises to bring the complex and vibrant world of The Beatles to life in an unprecedented way.

Exploring the Pivotal Role of Brian Epstein in The Beatles' Journey

Brian Epstein's story is as integral to The Beatles' success as their music itself. In 1961, he stumbled upon the band during a lunchtime concert at Liverpool's Cavern Club. Despite having zero experience managing musicians, he was captivated. He quickly signed them, polished their raw image, and tirelessly worked to secure them a recording contract, eventually landing a deal with EMI's Parlophone label. It's hard to imagine The Beatles becoming the global phenomenon they did without Epstein's vision, drive, and unwavering belief in their talent.

Sadly, Epstein's life was cut short at just 32 in 1967 due to a drug overdose, leaving a massive void in the band's management and personal lives. His influence, however, remains undeniable, and his character is expected to feature across all four films, weaving through each Beatle's individual narrative. For those interested, Epstein's life was also explored in the 2024 biopic Midas Man, but seeing James Norton's take on this legendary figure within the context of the band's full story promises a fresh perspective.

Linda McCartney: More Than Just a Partner in Paul's Life

Saoirse Ronan's casting as Linda McCartney is fantastic news for anyone eager to understand the deeper human stories behind the music. Linda Eastman, a talented American photographer, met Paul McCartney in 1967 and they married in 1969. She quickly became an essential part of his life, both personally and professionally.

After The Beatles' breakup, Linda's musical contributions were vital to Paul's post-Beatles career, particularly in their band Wings, where she played keyboards and sang backup. She was even jointly credited on Paul's 1971 album, Ram. Her solo album, Wide Prairie, was released posthumously after her death from breast cancer in 1998 at age 56.

Ronan, an Academy Award nominee known for her powerful and nuanced performances in films like Lady Bird and Little Women, is perfectly suited to bring Linda's intelligence, artistry, and vital role in Paul's life to the big screen. Her reunion with Paul Mescal (who's playing Paul McCartney) is an exciting prospect, promising to capture the genuine connection between the two. Given Linda's importance, expect her to be a significant presence, especially in the film dedicated to Paul's perspective.

Behind the Scenes: Sam Mendes' Vision and The Beatles' Unprecedented Blessing

The mastermind behind this ambitious undertaking is none other than Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes, renowned for his work on cinematic gems like 1917 and Skyfall. Mendes has been developing this project for years, aiming to tell The Beatles' story in a way that's never been done before. He's working with a team of acclaimed writers, including Jez Butterworth, Peter Straughan, and Jack Thorne, though it's not yet clear which writer is tackling which specific film.

What makes this project truly unique and historic is the unprecedented cooperation from The Beatles themselves. This marks the first time that Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of the late John Lennon and George Harrison (through Apple Corps Ltd.) have granted full life story rights and music rights for scripted feature films. This means we're getting an authorized, in-depth look with access to their legendary song catalog – a game-changer for any biopic.

Paul McCartney has reportedly been involved, even training Paul Mescal's voice for the role, while Ringo Starr is said to have requested script changes, now expressing satisfaction with his depiction. This level of involvement suggests a commitment to authenticity and a story told with the blessing of those who lived it.

Sam Mendes on the project: "I've been trying to make a story about The Beatles for years. While the Beatles' rise to fame has been well-chronicled over the years, I can assure you that there is still plenty to explore. Frankly, we need big cinematic events to get people out of the house."

What to Expect from This "Cinematic Event" in April 2028

Sony Pictures Entertainment is fully backing this venture, financing and distributing what they've dubbed a "groundbreaking creative endeavor." The plan is bold: all four films are slated for a theatrical release in April 2028. Mendes himself calls it the "first cinematic bingeable experience," hinting at an innovative release strategy, though the exact order and cadence of the films are still under wraps.

The vision is for the four individual perspectives to intersect, capturing the band's improbable journey from the clubs of Liverpool to becoming a global cultural phenomenon, culminating in their eventual breakup in 1970. This ambitious approach means filming simultaneously over the course of an entire year, ensuring a cohesive yet distinct narrative for each Beatle.

Fans can anticipate a deep dive into the band's internal dynamics, creative processes, personal struggles, and monumental achievements, all set against the backdrop of their revolutionary music. This isn't just a series of biopics; it's designed to be a major cultural event that draws audiences back to the big screen for an immersive experience.

A Deeper Look at the Talented Ensemble Beyond the Main Stars

Beyond the core casting, the additions of James Norton and Saoirse Ronan truly elevate the potential of this project. Norton’s recent work, from his intense portrayal in Happy Valley to his role in Bob Marley: One Love, demonstrates his versatility and ability to embody complex real-life figures. His take on Brian Epstein, a figure who battled personal demons while masterminding global success, is sure to be captivating.

Saoirse Ronan, with four Oscar nominations to her name, consistently delivers performances that are both powerful and nuanced. Her ability to convey deep emotion and intelligence makes her an ideal choice for Linda McCartney, a woman who navigated the intense world of rock stardom while forging her own identity as an artist and a family woman. Her on-screen chemistry with Paul Mescal, already proven in Foe, will be a significant highlight.

Other rumored and confirmed castings, such as Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono and Mia McKenna-Bruce as Maureen Starkey, indicate a commitment to fleshing out the rich tapestry of individuals who were central to The Beatles' universe. These figures often hold crucial insights into the band's journey, and their inclusion promises a comprehensive and human story.

Why This Unprecedented Project Matters for Beatles Fans and Beyond

For decades, fans have dreamed of a definitive, authorized narrative of The Beatles, and Sam Mendes' four-film project looks set to deliver exactly that. The access to their life stories and, crucially, their music, means these films won't just tell a story; they'll immerse viewers in the soundscape that defined a generation.

The unique format, with each film from a different Beatle's perspective, offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the diverse experiences, tensions, and camaraderie within the band. It's a chance to see familiar events through new eyes and gain a deeper understanding of the individual journeys that converged to create something extraordinary.

With an April 2028 release date, we still have some time to anticipate more details, but the steady stream of exciting casting news, especially the additions of James Norton and Saoirse Ronan, confirms that this is a project of immense ambition and talent. Get ready to experience The Beatles like never before!

Frequently Asked Questions About The Beatles Cinematic Event When will Sam Mendes' Beatles films be released? All four films are slated for a theatrical release in April 2028. The exact dates or viewing order within that month haven't been confirmed yet, but it's being planned as a unique "cinematic event." Who is directing The Beatles movies? Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes, known for films like 1917 and Skyfall, is directing all four installments. Which actors are playing The Beatles in the films? Paul Mescal is Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson is John Lennon, Joseph Quinn is George Harrison, and Barry Keoghan is Ringo Starr. Why is this Beatles project so special? This is the first time that Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison (via Apple Corps Ltd.) have granted full life story and music rights for scripted feature films. This means unprecedented access to their story and iconic songs. Sources

• Deadline (Justin Kroll, Oct 14, 2025)
• Variety (Rebecca Rubin, Oct 14, 2025)
• ScreenRant (Oct 14, 2025)
• Shortlist (Hermione Blandford, Oct 9, 2025)
• IrishCentral (IrishCentral Staff, Oct 09, 2025)
• IndieWire (Brian Welk, Oct 8, 2025)
• The Independent (Oct 9, 2025)