Liverpool is gearing up for another moment in the global spotlight as excitement builds around Sam Mendes’ Beatles movies, an ambitious four‑film project exploring the story of the Fab Four from four unique perspectives, to be released April 2028.
With Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison and Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, the films promise a fresh, cinematic look at the band’s rise, challenges, and cultural impact.
Adding a special layer of authenticity, several Liverpool actors have officially joined the cast - a huge moment for local talent and a proud milestone for the region. Their involvement ensures that the Liverpool actors' Beatles film connection is more than just a headline; it’s a celebration of homegrown voices shaping a story rooted in the city’s identity.
Although no official Beatles filming locations in Liverpool have been confirmed, fans and film‑lovers are already speculating about where the cameras might roll. Liverpool City Region is filled with iconic Beatles‑related locations that could easily feature in the production. The from the vibrant energy of Mathew Street to the beautifully preserved village of Port Sunlight, all offer atmospheric backdrops that could bring the band’s early years to life on screen. Liverpool remains the heart of the Beatles story. The city’s music heritage, architecture, and unmistakable spirit continue to draw visitors from around the world - and with Sam Mendes’ Beatles movies on the horizon, interest in Liverpool’s Beatles history is set to soar once again.
1. Leanne Best plays Mimi Smith
Mimi Smith was John Lennon’s maternal aunt and his legal guardian for most of his childhood. She played a major role in raising him and shaping the early environment he grew up in. Though she loved him, Mimi was famously strict and dismissive of his musical ambitions, once telling him: “The guitar’s all right, John, but you’ll never make a living out of it.”
You will recognise Leanne from: Ripper Street, Fortitude, Cold Feet, Line of Duty, Undercover, The Good Karma Hospital, Ted Lasso, G’wed, The Bay, Insomnia
2. David Morrissey plays Jim McCartney
Jim McCartney was Paul McCartney’s father, a key figure in Paul’s early life and musical development. He was a former jazz musician and bandleader who encouraged Paul’s interest in music. He supported both Paul and John during the Beatles’ earliest years providing emotional and musical grounding as they began writing songs together.
You will recognise him from: One Summer, State of Play (earning a BAFTA nomination), The Walking Dead, Sherwood, Cause Célèbre, Holding On, Our Mutual Friend, The Deal, Basic Instinct 2, The Reaping, Don’t Worry About Me - His feature length directorial debut.
3. Bobby Schofield - plays Neil Aspinall
Neil Aspinall was a long‑time friend, road manager, and later the head of Apple Corps, effectively becoming one of the Beatles’ closest and most trusted inner‑circle members. He started out driving the band to gigs in the early days and eventually became central to managing their business affairs, protecting their legacy for decades. A steady presence across all four band‑member perspectives since he was uniquely close to each of them at different times.
You will recognise him from: Black Sea, The Catcher Was a Spy, How to Build a Girl, Locked Down, Cherry, Don’t Breathe 2, The Covenant, Knightfall, Our World War, Time, Anne, The Suspect, The Walk-In, Rogue Heroes, Eric, This City Is Ours.
Actors cast as the significant love interests in the Beatles biopics are Mia McKenna-Bruce as Maureen Starkey (Ringo Starr’s first wife), Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney (Paul McCartney’s first wife), Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono (John Lennon’s wife), and Aimee Lou Wood as Pattie Boyd (George Harrison’s first wife). Harry Lloyd will portray producer Sir George Martin, often called the ‘Fifth Beatle’ for his pivotal role in shaping the band’s studio sound. James Norton as influential manager Brian Epstein, Harry Lloyd as long-time music producer George Martin, Daniel Hoffman-Gill as roadie Mal Evans, Arthur Darvill as press officer and friend Derek Taylor, and Adam Pally as controversial music manager Allen Klein.
Here is a list of Beatles attractions and locations you can visit today before the films are released.
Mathew Street, a vibrant Liverpool hotspot where visitors can enjoy lively music venues, iconic Beatles attractions, and a bustling nightlife atmosphere. Mathew Street is home to many locations you can get your selfie!
The Cavern Club, a ‘must see’ Liverpool visitor attraction, visitors to the Cavern can enjoy live music every day, soak up its legendary Beatles atmosphere, and grab food and drinks as you explore one of Liverpool’s most iconic music venues
The Grapes Pub, a popular Beatles-themed visitor spot on Mathew Street, known for its links to the band. Enjoy a pint in one of Liverpool’s best‑known historic pubs, famously busy in Beatles days because the Cavern didn’t serve alcohol!
Penny Lane: One of the most iconic Beatles locations on Earth, attracting fans eager to walk the street that inspired the band’s famous song.
Port Sunlight: Home to Hulme Hall, where The Beatles played four shows in 1962. It has already been used heavily in the Epstein biopic "Midas Man" for its authentic 1960s look. A beautifully preserved model village, offers visitors a picturesque glimpse into its unique Victorian heritage and garden village charm.
Strawberry Field: The real location is tied to Lennon’s childhood. This visitor attraction invites you to explore the site that inspired the timeless song and learn more about The Beatles through a variety of interactive experiences.
Mendips (Menlove Avenue): John Lennon’s home, with Aunt Mimi
Liverpool College of Art (Hope Street area): John Lennon studied here
Forthlin Road: Paul McCartney’s childhood home
The Philharmonic Pub & Hope Street: Paul has spoken frequently about his memories of the area
Upton Green: George Harrison’s childhood home
St George's Hall: John carved his name in the historic courtroom furniture!
We look forward to welcoming the cast and crew to the city.
Other notable names attached to the project:
Producers: #SamMendes, #PippaHarris, #JuliePastor, #AlexandraDerbyshire
Writers: #JezButterworth, #PeterStraughan, #JackThorne
Production companies: #NealStreetProductions, #SonyPictures, #AppleCorpsLocations