James Norton to Portray Brian Epstein in Ambitious Four-Part Beatles Biopic
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A sweeping cinematic event chronicling the lives of the Beatles is set to unfold on the big screen, with James Norton cast as their influential manager, Brian Epstein. The project, spearheaded by director Sam Mendes, promises an unprecedented deep dive into the band’s history, told through four individual films, each focusing on a different member.
A Unique Approach to the Beatles Story
The upcoming “The Beatles — A Four-Film Cinematic Event” will offer a novel perspective on the iconic group’s journey. Mendes intends to present each film from the viewpoint of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, allowing audiences to experience their individual struggles and triumphs. These separate narratives are expected to intersect, weaving together the complete story of their rise from Liverpool to global superstardom and eventual breakup in 1970.
Casting the Fab Four and Their Inner Circle
Norton, 40, joins a stellar cast already announced for the project. Paul Mescal will embody Paul McCartney, Harrison Dickinson will portray John Lennon, Barry Keoghan will take on the role of Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn will play George Harrison. Beyond the core four, several other key figures from the Beatles’ world have been cast. Saoirse Ronan is set to play Linda McCartney, while Anna Sawai will portray Yoko Ono. Aimee Lou Wood is in talks to play Pattie Boyd, George Harrison’s spouse, and Mia McKenna-Bruce will appear as Maureen Starkey, Ringo Starr’s first wife.
Epstein’s Pivotal Role
Brian Epstein is widely regarded as the “fifth Beatle,” and his influence on the band’s success cannot be overstated. Meeting the group in 1961, Epstein transformed them from a local Liverpool act into a global phenomenon. He remained with the Beatles until his untimely death in 1967 at the age of 32 from a drug overdose – a story previously explored in the 2024 biopic Midas Man. Given his central role, it is anticipated that Norton’s portrayal of Epstein will be a recurring presence throughout all four films.
Sony Remains Tight-Lipped
Despite the growing excitement surrounding the project, Sony, the studio backing the films, has declined to comment on the casting news, which was initially reported by Deadline. The films are slated for release in April 2028, promising a long-awaited and comprehensive look into the lives and legacy of the Beatles.
Norton’s Recent Biopic Experience
This role marks Norton’s second foray into musical biopic territory, following his appearance last year in Bob Marley: One Love, where he played record producer Chris Blackwell. His previous credits also include notable performances in Netflix’s House of Guinness, Grantchester, Happy Valley, and HBO’s House of the Dragon.
The ambitious scope of Mendes’ project suggests a profound exploration of the Beatles’ cultural impact and the complex relationships that shaped their extraordinary story.
