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Barry Keoghan, the acclaimed Irish actor known for his Oscar-nominated performances, is stepping into the iconic role of Ringo Starr in a series of upcoming biopics about The Beatles, directed by the talented Sam Mendes. As he prepares for this significant role, Keoghan has been immersing himself in the life of the legendary drummer, recently sharing insights from his meeting with Starr himself. This unique opportunity not only highlights Keoghan’s dedication to his craft but also brings a fresh perspective to the beloved band’s story.
Meeting a legend: Barry Keoghan’s experience with Ringo Starr
In a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show, Keoghan recounted his memorable encounter with Ringo Starr at the musician’s home. The 32-year-old actor was visibly excited as he described how Starr played the drums for him. However, the experience was not without its challenges; Keoghan admitted to feeling overwhelmed and nervous during their meeting. He humorously recalled how, at the moment, he struggled to make eye contact with the legendary drummer, saying, “I was frozen!” Keoghan’s candidness about his nerves is a testament to the weight of the role he is about to take on.
Bringing Ringo Starr to life
Keoghan emphasized that his goal is not merely to imitate Starr but to humanize him, bringing depth and emotion to the character. He stated, “My job is to observe and take in all kind of mannerisms and, you know, studying [him]. I want to humanize him, bring feelings to it.” This approach suggests that Keoghan aims to present a nuanced portrayal of the drummer, moving beyond the surface to explore the complexities of Starr’s character. This dedication to understanding and embodying Ringo is crucial, given the weight of the Beatles’ legacy in music history.
The ensemble cast and the significance of the project
Keoghan will not be alone in this ambitious project. He will share the screen with a stellar cast, including Paul Mescal as Sir Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, and Joseph Quinn portraying George Harrison. The collaboration of such talented actors under Mendes’s direction promises a compelling representation of the band’s story. This biopic is particularly significant as it marks the first time that The Beatles’ estates have granted full life-story and music rights for a scripted film, indicating the project’s authenticity and importance.
Reflecting on The Beatles’ legacy
Formed in 1960, The Beatles remain the best-selling musical act of all time and continue to influence artists around the globe. With 18 UK number one singles to their name, the band’s impact on music and culture is undeniable. Previous films about the Beatles, like “Nowhere Boy,” which focused on John Lennon’s early years, have offered glimpses into their lives but have not explored the full depth of their story. This upcoming project aims to change that by delving deeper into the band’s dynamics and the individual personalities that contributed to their monumental success.
Barry Keoghan’s journey in the film industry
Barry Keoghan’s rise in the film industry has been nothing short of remarkable. His performance in “The Banshees of Inisherin” earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, showcasing his talent and versatility. As he transitions to this new role, fans and critics alike are eager to see how he brings Ringo Starr to life on screen. With Mendes at the helm, known for his work on films like “Skyfall” and “1917,” the expectations are high for a captivating narrative that pays homage to one of music’s greatest bands.