In what seemed like an April Fools’ Day hoax, the announcement of Sam Mendes directing a four-part Beatles biopic sent shockwaves through the entertainment world. The project will star Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. Set to be released in 2028, The Beatles: A Four-Film Cinematic Event promises a fresh take on the iconic band’s storied journey.
While fans and critics alike are already speculating about the cast’s portrayal of the famous quartet—questioning everything from their looks to their ability to nail Scouse accents—another important casting decision looms large: Who will play the women who were integral to the Beatles’ narrative? The women surrounding the band were more than just their romantic partners; they were collaborators, muses, and often a creative force in their own right. From Yoko Ono to Pattie Boyd, Barbara Bach, and even a young Stella McCartney, these women shaped not only the Beatles’ music but their individual and collective lives.
Here, Vogue suggests a few actresses who might embody these iconic figures from the Beatles’ universe.
Yoko Ono – Tilda Swinton
Yoko Ono’s relationship with John Lennon is one of the most controversial and discussed aspects of the Beatles’ story. Known for her avant-garde art and boundary-pushing ideals, Ono’s influence on Lennon was profound—both artistically and personally. The actress tasked with playing Ono needs to convey not only her groundbreaking artistic vision but also the strength and resilience she showed in the face of public scrutiny. Tilda Swinton, with her ethereal beauty and commanding presence, is a strong choice to embody Ono’s eccentricity and fierce individuality. Swinton’s own artistry and willingness to embrace unconventional roles make her the perfect match for a woman who defied norms in both the art world and in her relationship with Lennon.
Pattie Boyd – Emma Mackey
Pattie Boyd’s relationship with George Harrison and Eric Clapton placed her at the heart of two rock legends’ lives. Boyd, often seen as the quintessential ‘rock muse,’ was the inspiration behind some of Harrison’s most beloved songs, like Something from Abbey Road, and Clapton’s iconic ballad, Layla. The actress playing Boyd must evoke both the glamour and complexity of a woman who was caught between two musical giants. Emma Mackey, known for her breakout role in Sex Education, has the ability to combine youthful beauty with emotional depth. Mackey’s cool, yet captivating presence would bring Boyd’s understated yet magnetic persona to life, capturing her role as the muse who both inspired and suffered.
Barbara Bach – Margaret Qualley
Barbara Bach, who married Ringo Starr in 1981, is best known for her role as a Bond girl in The Spy Who Loved Me and as a model. A perfect fit for portraying the glamorous life of a woman who managed to find her place within the Beatles’ orbit without being overshadowed by it, Margaret Qualley would be a great choice for playing Barbara. Known for her roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Fosse/Verdon, Qualley has the elegance and poise needed to channel Bach’s beauty and intellect, while also showcasing the strength it took to balance her career with life as a Beatles’ wife.
Linda McCartney – Sophie Turner
Linda McCartney, a talented musician in her own right, was a vital part of the McCartney family. Her music, activism, and unwavering support of Paul McCartney during both the Beatles’ breakup and the rise of his solo career made her a beloved figure. To portray Linda’s warmth, intelligence, and creative spirit, Sophie Turner stands out as an ideal candidate. Turner’s ability to portray multi-dimensional characters, as seen in Game of Thrones, would serve her well in bringing Linda’s legacy to life—an incredibly talented woman who remained a pillar of support for her husband and a passionate advocate for animal rights.
A Young Stella McCartney – Florence Pugh
Before becoming a renowned fashion designer, Stella McCartney was an important figure in her father’s life and career, helping shape the cultural narrative surrounding her family. The young Stella’s fierce independence and creativity would be an important aspect of her role in the biopic. Florence Pugh, with her versatile range from Little Women to Midsommar, has the ability to portray both the rebellious spirit and the nurturing aspect of a young woman navigating her own creative path while still being the daughter of a global icon.
The Apple Scruffs – Zendaya
The Apple Scruffs, a dedicated group of Beatles fans who camped outside the band’s homes and recording studios, played a key role in the Beatles’ world. These fans were as much a part of the Beatles’ story as the band members themselves, providing unwavering support in a time when the Fab Four was under intense scrutiny. Zendaya, known for her ability to command attention both on screen and off, would be an intriguing choice to represent this passionate fandom. Her ability to balance strength and vulnerability makes her a perfect fit for an Apple Scruff who is both a devoted fan and a deeply invested character in the Beatles’ universe.
The women of the Beatles’ world were not just bystanders in the band’s saga; they played a pivotal role in shaping its music, influence, and narrative. The casting of these characters is crucial to telling a complete story that honors their contributions. Whether it’s Yoko Ono’s avant-garde artistry or Pattie Boyd’s status as a muse, each woman brought her own unique magic to the world of the Beatles. As the cinematic event approaches, fans are eager to see who will bring these iconic women to life on the big screen, cementing their place in the Beatles’ storied legacy for a new generation.
The Beatles’ universe is about to get a lot bigger—and more nuanced—thanks to these upcoming biopics. As the clock ticks down to 2028, we can’t help but wonder: Who will be the next legendary woman to join the Fab Four’s world?
