Imagine stepping into the shoes of Linda McCartney, a creative force and icon of her era, now brought vividly to life by the incredible Saoirse Ronan. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Ronan is set to portray Linda McCartney in a groundbreaking cinematic event about The Beatles, directed by the acclaimed Sam Mendes. This project isn’t just another biopic; it’s a bold four-film series that explores the unique stories of each Beatles member, hitting theaters in April 2028.
Sources reveal that Ronan, a four-time Academy Award nominee known for roles in films like Brooklyn and Lady Bird, has officially signed on to play Linda McCartney, the first wife of Paul McCartney. The cast is already star-studded, featuring Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, and Harris Dickinson as John Lennon. Each film will delve into one Beatles member’s life, with Ronan expected to shine prominently in the installment about Paul McCartney. However, it’s still uncertain how much Linda’s character will appear in the other films.
Linda McCartney was much more than Paul’s wife—she was a pioneering photographer and musician who captured iconic images of legendary artists like The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, and The Doors in the 1960s. Remarkably, she was the first woman photographer featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. After marrying Paul McCartney in 1969, she joined him musically in the band Wings, continuing her artistic journey post-Beatles. Beyond music and photography, Linda was a fierce advocate for animal rights and vegetarianism, founding Linda McCartney Foods in 1991 to promote ethical eating. Sadly, she passed away from cancer in 1998.
This ambitious Beatles project is the first time The Beatles and Apple Corps Ltd. have officially allowed scripted films to use the band members’ life stories and music, a move that’s already stirring discussions. Sony Pictures is financing and distributing the films, which will be directed by Sam Mendes, who is collaborating with writers Jez Butterworth, Peter Straughan, and Jack Thorne. Though the specifics of who wrote which part remain under wraps, the team-up promises a fresh and nuanced perspective on legendary music history.
Sony Pictures Entertainment has partnered with Mendes’ Neal Street Productions, with producers including Mendes himself, Pippa Harris, Julie Pastor, and Alexandra Derbyshire. This unique collaboration underscores the high stakes and immense production value behind the project.
As for Ronan, her recent work has solidified her as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation, with standout performances in Nora Fingscheidt’s The Outrun and Steve McQueen’s Blitz. She’s also gearing up for the dark comedy Bad Apples by Jonatan Etzler, and the upcoming music-themed romance Deep Cuts opposite Austin Butler, directed by Sean Durkin and based on Holly Brickley’s debut novel.
Represented by CAA, Ronan’s involvement adds significant weight and star power to this cinematic event. But here’s the question that could spark debate: will this ambitious, multi-film portrayal honor the complex legacies of all The Beatles members and those closest to them, or risk simplifying a legendary story for mass appeal? Share your thoughts below—do you believe a series of films can truly capture the magic and turmoil of one of the most iconic bands in history?
