The Fab Four Returns: Paul Mescal, Harris Dickinson, Barry Keoghan and Joseph Quinn Recreate Beatles' Iconic Abbey Road Photo

Paul Mescal, Harris Dickinson, Barry Keoghan, and Joseph Quinn are breathing new life into one of music's most iconic photos. The cast of The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event took to the Abbey Road crosswalk on August 16, recreating the legendary band's historic photo taken at the same spot some 60 years prior.

Mescal, 30, Dickinson, 30, Keoghan, 33, and Quinn, 32, each will star in individual biopics as Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison, respectively. The four actors were seen strolling across the crosswalk in single file, each wearing an outfit similar to those The Beatles wore for the original photo, which became the iconic cover for their Abbey Road album.

The image, captured by freelance photographer Iain Macmillan on August 8, 1969, has become one of the most imitated photographs in history. The crossing has since become a pilgrimage site for Beatles fans worldwide, with thousands recreating the walk each year. Now, the actors portraying the legendary band have taken their turn, paying homage to the moment that defined an era.

A Cinematic Event Like No Other

First announced in 2024, the four-film project will feature a collection of biopics, to give ample room to tell each individual member's story from their perspectives. Director Sam Mendes will helm the project, with Sony Pictures and Neal Street Productions backing the ambitious undertaking.

The film series' cast was announced in March 2025 at CinemaCon in Las Vegas. There, Mendes opened up about bringing the band's stories to the screen. "The Beatles changed my understanding of music," Mendes said to the audience at CinemaCon. "I've been trying to make a movie about them for years."

He added that the four movies, which would take a year to film, would be the "first bingeable theatrical experience." The concept represents a groundbreaking approach to biographical filmmaking, allowing each band member's story to be told in depth while also creating an interconnected cinematic universe that audiences can experience sequentially.

The project's structure reflects the complexity of The Beatles' story. Rather than compressing the lives of four extraordinary individuals into a single film, Mendes' approach gives each member the space to have their voice heard. It's a fitting tribute to a band whose music was defined by the interplay of four distinct personalities.

Meeting the Legends

Since their casting, Mescal and Keoghan, who play McCartney, 84, and Starr, 86, the two remaining Beatles have opened up about meeting the musicians before stepping into their shoes for the films. For both actors, the encounters were deeply meaningful and slightly nerve-wracking.

While speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in May 2025, Keoghan revealed that just being in Starr's presence was a loaded experience. "When I was talking to him I couldn't look at him. I was nervous, like right now. He said, 'You can look at me.' And again you're playing Ringo Starr," Keoghan said.

The Irish actor emphasized his commitment to more than just imitation. "My job is to observe and take in kind of mannerisms and study, but I want to humanize him and bring feelings to him, not just sort of imitate him," he explained. This approach reflects a deeper understanding of the responsibility that comes with portraying such iconic figures capturing not just the public persona but the private individual behind the legend.

Mescal, in turn, detailed the "crazy" experience of meeting McCartney while speaking with IndieWire. "It's a crazy sentence to say that I've spent time with that man, let alone play him," Mescal said of McCartney, whom he described as "an extraordinary man."

The opportunity to meet the musicians they will portray has given the actors invaluable insight into their characters. For Mescal, understanding McCartney's personality, mannerisms, and perspective on his life and career will be essential to delivering a performance that honours his legacy.

The Weight of the Roles

The four actors face the daunting task of portraying some of the most famous and beloved musicians in history. The Beatles' influence on music and popular culture is immeasurable, and any portrayal of their lives carries immense weight with fans and critics alike.

However, the cast has demonstrated a deep respect for the source material and a commitment to authenticity. Keoghan's comments about wanting to "humanize" Starr rather than simply imitate him suggest a thoughtful approach to the role. Similarly, Mescal's enthusiasm about meeting McCartney indicates a genuine appreciation for the opportunity to bring his story to life.

The actors also face the challenge of portraying the band during some of the most tumultuous years of their career. From the early days of Beatlemania to the creative tensions that eventually led to their breakup, the films will cover a wide range of emotional territory.

A Global Anticipation

The announcement of the project and casting has generated enormous interest worldwide. The Beatles' fan base spans generations and continents, and the prospect of seeing their stories told on the big screen in such an ambitious format has captivated audiences.

Mendes' vision for the project has also drawn attention. The concept of a "bingeable theatrical experience" represents a new model for film distribution, potentially reshaping how audiences engage with biographical storytelling. By releasing four interconnected films, the project offers a depth and complexity that a single biopic could not achieve.

The films are expected to premiere in April 2028, giving the cast and crew ample time to complete the ambitious production. The year-long filming schedule underscores the scale of the project and the commitment required to bring it to fruition.

Honouring a Legacy

For Mendes, the project is a labour of love. The Oscar-winning director, known for films such as American Beauty, 1917, and Skyfall, has long been fascinated by The Beatles' story. His passion for the project is evident in his comments about the band's influence on his life and work.

The commitment to authenticity extends beyond the casting to the production design, costumes, and music. The films will feature The Beatles' original recordings, ensuring that the music that defined the band's legacy remains at the heart of the storytelling.

The Abbey Road photo recreation serves as a powerful symbol of the project's ambition. By recreating one of the most famous images in music history, the actors have signaled their commitment to honouring The Beatles' legacy while bringing their stories to a new generation.

Paul Mescal, Harris Dickinson, Barry Keoghan, and Joseph Quinn have taken their first steps into the shoes of music legends, recreating The Beatles' iconic Abbey Road photo at the historic crosswalk. The moment serves as a powerful preview of Sam Mendes' ambitious four-film biopic project, which promises to tell the story of the Fab Four like never before.

As fans eagerly await the 2028 premiere, the actors' commitment to authenticity and their deep respect for the band they portray bode well for the project's success. The Beatles' legacy continues to inspire new generations, and this groundbreaking cinematic event ensures that their story will be told for years to come.