Ridley Scott's intentions to collaborate once again with Paul Mescal might find themselves temporarily shelved, all thanks to the enduring legacy of the Beatles. During a post-screening chat with fellow director Christopher Nolan at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles on Tuesday, following the premiere of Scott's latest epic, Gladiator II, the filmmaker revealed his plans for his forthcoming venture: a thrilling feature titled The Dog Stars. Nolan, inquisitive about recent reports suggesting Mescal's involvement in the project, prompted Scott for confirmation. Scott initially affirmed the rumor but quickly corrected himself, elucidating that Mescal's packed schedule, particularly his commitment to Sony Pictures' Beatles biopic series helmed by Sam Mendes, could hinder their reunion on the silver screen.
"Indeed," Scott responded to Nolan's inquiry about Mescal starring in The Dog Stars, before adding, "Perhaps not. Paul is quite booked up, diving into the Beatles project next. So, I might have to release him from our plans." Although this casting news hasn't been officially sanctioned by the studio, whispers have it that Mescal is being eyed as the prime candidate to portray Paul McCartney in Mendes' upcoming quartet of biopics, each dedicated to a different Beatle: McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. Each film, destined for theatrical release, will spotlight the unique journey of one of the Fab Four.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight last month, amidst swirling rumors, Mescal was queried about the prospect of embodying McCartney. "It would be an extraordinary tale to be part of," he said cautiously. "With Sam Mendes at the helm, it's truly a dream scenario." When pressed further on whether he'd indeed take on the role, Mescal playfully demurred, "No, no, no – let's not go there yet."
Similarly, last month, Beatles drummer Ringo Starr revealed to Entertainment Tonight that Barry Keoghan would be portraying him in the films and mentioned the actor's drum lessons in preparation. Rumors also hinted at Joseph Quinn being considered for a role. At the time of Starr's revelation, no casting deals had been finalized. The Hollywood Reporter sought comment from Sony regarding Scott's statements.
Sony Pictures' chief, Tom Rothman, had previously shared with THR about the studio's ambitious project, which secured the nod from the Beatles' label, Apple Corps, stating, "The audaciousness of the concept must be matched by an equally bold release strategy. This endeavor is unprecedented, and traditional distribution models don't apply here."
Mescal's acting prowess was first recognized in his breakthrough role in Normal People, which garnered him an Emmy nomination, and further celebrated in his Oscar-nominated performance in Aftersun.
