“Don’t Do This! You Said You Wouldn’t!”: Paul McCartney Shares His One Complaint About the Upcoming Beatles Biopics
Paul McCartney says his main concern about Sam Mendes’ forthcoming Beatles films is that he may again be shown as shorter than John Lennon. He says the band members were roughly the same height, and argues that depicting him as smaller misrepresents their relationship.
McCartney recalled objecting to a similar portrayal in the 2010 film *Nowhere Boy*, where Lennon appeared larger and knocked him down. For Mendes’ films, Paul Mescal plays McCartney and Harris Dickinson plays Lennon; McCartney said a production photo seemed to show Mescal markedly shorter, prompting him to remind Mendes of his concern. Mendes replied that the difference was due to their stride, and later sent a photo in which they appeared equal in height. The four films are due for release in April 2028.
- McCartney objects to being shown shorter than Lennon.
- A production photo appeared to repeat the disputed portrayal.
- Mendes’ four Beatles films are due in April 2028.
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The Beatles were a British band whose members were John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. Lennon and McCartney were the group’s main songwriters, and their partnership helped shape the band’s music and public image.
Sam Mendes is making four films about the Beatles, with different actors playing each member. Paul Mescal plays McCartney and Harris Dickinson plays Lennon. McCartney’s concern about how their relative heights are shown reflects how even small details in a film can shape how audiences see the people and relationships behind the band.
The films are scheduled for release in April 2028.