Barry Keoghan is stepping into the shoes of legendary drummer Ringo Starr for the upcoming four-part Beatles biopic and although the actor is keeping most details under wraps his excitement is evident. With a career already filled with critically acclaimed performances this project might just be one of the most significant of his journey so far especially given the global legacy of The Beatles.
Currently in preparation for the much-anticipated production Barry is taking his role seriously by observing and learning directly from Ringo Starr himself. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight during a red carpet interview Barry revealed the surreal nature of meeting the music legend and how important that moment was for his character development. He described the encounter as a shock saying “Ringo is such an icon and just meeting him was… I’m still in shock from it. I’m observing and I’m looking for the little nuances and the… without making him feel that I’m observing for that reason.”
In addition to shadowing Starr Barry is also working on building strong chemistry with the rest of the cast portraying the Fab Four. The biopic is directed by Sam Mendes and will chronicle the lives and music of The Beatles in four parts each focused on a different member of the band. Barry’s dedication to accurately representing Ringo is a reflection of the high expectations surrounding the film.
During a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live Barry shared more about meeting Ringo Starr at his house where the icon even played the drums for him. Barry confessed he was too nervous to play in return but said Ringo’s warmth helped ease the nerves. “He asked me to play but I wasn’t playing the drums for Ringo. When I was talking to him I couldn’t look at him. I was nervous. But he’s like ‘You can look at me’. And again you’re playing Ringo Starr. My job is to observe and take in the mannerisms and study” Barry recalled.
The rest of the Beatles lineup in the film is equally star-studded. Paul Mescal will portray Paul McCartney Harris Dickinson known for Babygirl will bring John Lennon to life and Joseph Quinn is set to play George Harrison. The film is aiming for a global release in April 2028 and fans are eagerly waiting to see this intimate cinematic journey into the lives of music’s most iconic band.
