FridayOL

Irish actor Barry Keoghan, soon to embody the iconic Ringo Starr in Sam Mendes’ highly anticipated biopic, has opened up about his initial encounter with the legendary Beatles drummer. The 32-year-old star, known for his captivating performances in films like Saltburn, recounted a surprisingly nerve-wracking first meeting, revealing the pressure of stepping into the shoes of a music icon.

Keoghan, who will also share the screen with Paul Mescal and Thomasin McKenzie in the film, described the meeting as a surreal experience. “It was mad, yeah,” he told GQ. “It was just, like, ‘Wow, this is Ringo Starr.’ I was nervous, definitely. You don’t want to be annoying or bother him.”

The biopic, currently untitled, promises to delve into the life and career of Ringo Starr, one of the most beloved and enduring figures in music history. Mendes, the acclaimed director behind films like American Beauty and 1917, is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to bring complex characters to life. The film is expected to offer a fresh perspective on Starr’s journey, exploring his contributions to The Beatles and his subsequent solo career.

Keoghan’s casting as Ringo Starr has generated significant buzz within the industry. While he’s proven his acting prowess in a variety of roles, taking on such an iconic figure presents a unique challenge. He acknowledged the weight of expectation, stating, “You want to do him justice, you know? He’s a legend.”

The actor detailed how he prepared for the role, emphasizing the importance of capturing Starr’s personality and essence. “I’ve been watching a lot of footage, listening to a lot of music. Just trying to get a feel for him,” Keoghan explained. He also spoke about the support he’s received from Starr himself, highlighting the drummer’s generosity and willingness to share his experiences.

Paul Mescal, who is set to portray John Lennon, and Thomasin McKenzie, slated to play Cynthia Lennon, are also expected to deliver compelling performances. The combination of a talented cast and a visionary director suggests that this biopic has the potential to be a major cinematic event. Fans of The Beatles and music lovers alike are eagerly awaiting the film’s release, anticipating a captivating and insightful portrayal of one of the most influential bands of all time. Keoghan’s nervous first meeting with Ringo Starr serves as a testament to the profound impact of the drummer and the immense responsibility that comes with embodying such a celebrated figure.

The film is currently in production, with a release date yet to be announced. However, anticipation is high, and the early buzz surrounding Barry Keoghan’s portrayal of Ringo Starr suggests a promising and memorable cinematic experience.