Julia Baird, half-sister of the late John Lennon, has expressed her dissatisfaction with the casting decisions for the forthcoming Beatles biopics directed by Sam Mendes. The ambitious project, titled “The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event,” plans to release four separate films in April 2028, each focusing on one of the band’s iconic members. The announced cast includes Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison.
Baird’s primary concern centers on the absence of actors from Liverpool, the Beatles’ hometown. She believes that only native Liverpudlians can authentically capture the distinctive Scouse accent and cultural nuances. In an interview with The Telegraph, Baird stated, “No one else can get that Liverpool intonation. Nobody.”
Despite her reservations, Baird expressed skepticism about being consulted for the films, remarking, “He’s never going to ask me! I’m the last person he would want to talk to because then he can’t make it up.”
Director Sam Mendes aims to provide a unique perspective by dedicating each film to an individual band member, offering an in-depth exploration of their personal and professional lives. The project has received authorization from the surviving Beatles and the families of Lennon and Harrison, granting access to their life stories and music catalog.
—
Photo Credit: emka74 / Shutterstock.com