Barry Keoghan Enhances Personal Security with Alsatian Ahead of Beatles Biopic Role
Irish BAFTA-winning actor Barry Keoghan, aged 33, has taken significant steps to bolster his personal security by investing in an aggressive Alsatian protection dog. This move comes as he prepares for his lead role as Ringo Starr in the highly anticipated four-part Beatles biopic series, set for release in 2028.
Security Measures Amid Public Scrutiny
Keoghan has reportedly faced intense public attention, particularly following his split from American pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter. In response, he has turned to professional security solutions, with Alsatians being a popular choice among VIPs, including Premier League footballers, to deter potential burglaries and threats.
Instagram clips show the actor engaging in training sessions with his new dog, named Duke, learning handling techniques and playing with a blue chew toy to build rapport. A trainer from the firm Lawless K9 praised Keoghan's natural aptitude, noting that he "picked it up fast" during bonding exercises.
Training and Development for Protection
The trainer emphasized that Duke's protection training is being conducted correctly over time, without force, to ensure the dog is well-rounded. "Teaching him to box before he gets in the ring," the trainer explained, highlighting the careful nurturing process involved in developing a reliable security animal.
Beatles Biopic Casting and Fan Reactions
Keoghan, who rose to fame with his role in Saltburn, will star alongside Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison in the simultaneous release of four separate films. Filming has already commenced in London, with sets transformed to resemble 1960s New York during the height of Beatlemania.
However, the casting decisions have sparked controversy among fans and critics alike. Upon the announcement in April 2025, many took to social media to label the biopics as "horribly miscast." Critics argued that the actors bear little resemblance to the iconic band members, with one X user quipping that the hair and makeup team would deserve a Nobel prize if the films succeed.
- John Lennon's sister, Julia Baird, criticized the choice of Paul Mescal for McCartney, suggesting that Liverpool actors were overlooked.
- Some fans specifically targeted Keoghan's casting, calling him a "squashed face Ringo Starr," though others noted he and Mescal are the most convincing lookalikes.
- Less attention has been given to the casting of the band members' partners, including Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney and Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono.
Keoghan's Preparation and Public Appearances
In preparation for his role, Keoghan has embraced Ringo Starr's signature 'moptop' hairstyle, showcasing it at a recent red carpet event. He also admitted to feeling starstruck when first meeting Starr, revealing he couldn't look the Beatles legend in the eye. "He asked me to play, but I wasn't playing the drums for Ringo," Keoghan recounted, underscoring the pressure of portraying such an iconic figure.
Producer Tom Rothman has described the project as "the first bingeable theatrical experience," aiming to captivate audiences with a unique cinematic event. Despite the backlash, the production continues to move forward, with Keoghan balancing his security concerns with the demands of his high-profile role.
