Paul Mescal Urges Fans to Avoid Beatles Knowledge Before Biopics
The actor playing Paul McCartney in Sam Mendes' upcoming Beatles films wants audiences to go in blind when the movies hit theaters in 2028.
Paul Mescal believes moviegoers should approach the forthcoming Beatles biographical films with minimal background knowledge about the legendary band. The Irish actor, cast as Paul McCartney in Sam Mendes' ambitious four-film project, advocates for audiences to enter theaters with fresh perspectives when the movies debut in 2028.
Keeping Details Under Wraps
During a recent conversation with Variety, Mescal declined to share specifics about his highly anticipated role. The actor explained his reluctance stems from both contractual obligations and personal preference. "To be honest, I can say very little — actually contractually, but also I'm kind of keen to say very little about it, because I'm excited that people want to know so much about it," he stated.
Mescal expressed amazement at landing the coveted part alongside his co-stars Harris Dickinson, Barry Keoghan, and Joseph Quinn, who portray John Lennon, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison respectively. "The four of us inside it are pinching ourselves," he revealed.
Strategic Silence
The actor defended his decision to remain tight-lipped about production details. "I don't want to get into the Beatles thing, not coyly, but actually because I think the world hopefully will benefit from knowing as little as possible going into it," Mescal explained.
He confirmed the extensive timeline ahead, noting "We're a while away from finishing. That's my job for all of 2026." This commitment follows his current starring role as William Shakespeare in Hamnet, which recently earned the Best Motion Picture – Drama award at the 2026 Golden Globes.
Expanding Cast
Recent casting announcements have broadened the ensemble beyond the core Beatles members. Saoirse Ronan joins as Linda McCartney, while Aimee Lou Wood takes on Pattie Boyd. Mia McKenna-Bruce will portray Maureen Starkey, and Anna Sawai steps into the role of Yoko Ono.
Supporting characters include David Morrissey as Jim McCartney, Leanne Best as Aunt Mimi, and James Norton as manager Brian Epstein. The production has also cast Harry Lloyd as producer George Martin, Bobby Schofield as tour manager Neil Aspinall, Daniel Hoffman-Gill as Mal Evans, Arthur Darvill as press officer Derek Taylor, and Adam Pally as manager Allen Klein.