Irish actor Paul Mescal has revealed that his transformative role in an upcoming Beatles biopic has ignited a new passion: writing his own music. The 29-year-old, who portrays Sir Paul McCartney in the highly anticipated series, says the experience has profoundly changed his relationship with music.
A New Creative Spark
In an interview with British GQ, Mescal opened up about the impact of playing one of history's greatest songwriters. He confirmed he is now writing his own music, a direct result of the immersion required for the role. "I've learned so much. It's really inspired a love," Mescal stated, referring to the part.
He elaborated, explaining that while he has always loved music, stepping into McCartney's shoes provided a unique catalyst. "Getting to play one of the great songwriters and great frontmen has really lit a fire in terms of personally writing music and engaging and hearing music in a different way," Mescal said.
Meeting a Legend and Film Details
Mescal also shared his experience of meeting the man he portrays, describing Sir Paul McCartney as "the most brilliant man." He expressed feeling "emotionally attached" to the Beatles legend, who received him with "great kindness and warmth" upon learning of the casting.
The actor, who showcased his singing in films like Carmen and The History of Sound, is performing all his own vocals for the biopic. He comes from a musical family; his sister Nell is a popular singer, and they often duet together online.
The project, officially titled The Beatles: A Four-Film Cinematic Event, was announced last year. It represents a historic moment, as it's the first time the surviving Beatles and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison have granted rights for feature films about them.
Star-Studded Cast and Production
The four-part film series will tell the story of the iconic band from each member's perspective. Mescal stars alongside Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison.
The supporting cast is equally impressive:
- Aimee Lou Wood as Pattie Boyd (George Harrison's wife).
- Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney.
- Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono.
- Mia McKenna-Bruce as Maureen Cox (Ringo Starr's wife).
All four films are scheduled for a global release in April 2028. Directed by Sam Mendes, production is underway at London's legendary Abbey Road Studios. Contrary to earlier reports, Westminster Council confirmed it is working with the production team to facilitate filming, which will involve temporarily closing the famous zebra crossing for a recreation of the band's iconic 1969 album cover.
A Potential Step Back
Despite this career-defining role, Mescal hinted in a separate interview with The Guardian that he may take a break from the public eye soon. "People will get a break from me and I’ll get a break from them, over the next couple of years," he admitted, reflecting on the intense pace of his career over the last five to six years.
For now, however, his focus remains on the monumental task of bringing Paul McCartney's story to life and nurturing the new musical creativity the role has sparked within him.
