Don’t overlook Ringo Starr.
At 84 years old, the legendary drummer is not afraid to assert his influence over the narrative of his life. Recently, he demanded significant script changes in Sam Mendes’ forthcoming Beatles biopic. This isn’t just a casual suggestion; it’s a robust intervention from a music icon who knows the value of his story.
In a bold interview, Starr revealed that he spent two days hammering out extensive notes for Mendes, ensuring that his portrayal aligns with the truth of his relationships—especially with his first wife, Maureen Starkey Tigrett. “He had a great writer, but it had nothing to do with Maureen and I,” Starr firmly stated, rejecting the dramatized account that missed the mark. “That’s not how we were.”
Starr and Tigrett married in 1965 during the explosive rise of the Beatles. They welcomed three children, including celebrated drummer Zak Starkey, before their divorce in 1975. The authenticity of that era, woven through their personal lives, is paramount to Starr. He made his position crystal clear: “We would never do that.”
Though he now feels content with how his family will be depicted, Starr maintains skepticism about other elements of the film, particularly its scheduled April 2028 release. “But he’ll do what he’s doing,” he said, ever the optimist. “And I’ll send him peace and love.”
Mendes, a respected director at 59, has ambitious plans for this multi-part project. He intends to tell the Beatles’ story like never before, with each member receiving their moment in the spotlight. This includes Barry Keoghan as Starr, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison.
Mendes boldly stated, “We’re not just making one film about the Beatles—we’re making four.” He insists there’s a wealth of untold stories waiting to be explored, positioning this as a chance for deeper understanding of the iconic band.
In a groundbreaking move, Mendes plans to release all four films simultaneously, crafting what he calls the “first binge-able theatrical experience.” Alongside a stellar cast, he has enlisted accomplished writers to ensure that each installment hits the mark.
Starr has expressed excitement about seeing himself and his bandmates immortalized on screen. “My life as a lad, John’s life, Paul’s life, George’s life, I mean, it must interact in some way,” he remarked, emphasizing that their stories are interwoven.
Keoghan, preparing for his role as Starr, is taking his task seriously. He admits he’s been taking drum lessons, striving to capture not only Starr’s musical essence but also his humanity. “I want to humanize him and bring feelings to it and not just sort of imitate,” Keoghan asserted.
Ringo Starr is not just a reflection of the past; he is a force to be reckoned with in the present, shaping his own legacy while pointing the way forward for future generations.
