In the world of rock and roll, where stories often take on a life of their own, Ringo Starr is determined to ensure that his narrative stays true to reality. The legendary Beatles drummer recently shared insights into why he insisted on script changes for his upcoming biopic, scheduled for release in April 2028. This cinematic venture will debut alongside films focused on the lives of his iconic bandmates John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison.
Speaking candidly with the New York Times, Starr revealed that the initial script drafts failed to capture the essence of his relationship with his first wife, Maureen Starkey Tigrett. “He had a writer — very good writer, great reputation, and he wrote it great, but it had nothing to do with Maureen and I,” Starr explained. “That’s not how we were. I’d say, ‘We would never do that.’”
To address these concerns, Starr and director Sam Mendes spent two days in London, refining the script to align with the drummer’s true experiences. However, Starr did express some skepticism about the ambitious deadlines set for the four-part biopic series. “But he’ll do what he’s doing, and I’ll send him peace and love,” Starr commented, showcasing his signature laid-back demeanor.
The drummer’s personal life, marked by his marriage to Maureen Cox in 1965 and their subsequent divorce in 1975, is a significant aspect of the biopic. Their union produced three children, including former Who drummer Zak Starkey. After their divorce, Maureen married Hard Rock Cafe co-founder Isaac Tigrett and tragically passed away from cancer in 1994.
In a lighter moment during the interview, Starr reminisced about his songwriting attempts with the Beatles. “It’s hard to come to the front when you’ve got John and Paul,” he joked. “I’d say, ‘I’ve got this song.’ And halfway through they’d all be laying on the floor laughing, because I wasn’t writing new songs. I was writing new words to old songs!”
Paul McCartney, reflecting on their enduring friendship, emphasized the unique bond they share. “With John and George not here, I think we realize nothing lasts forever. So we grasp onto what we have now because we realize that it’s very special,” McCartney said. “It’s something hardly anyone else has… There’s only me and Ringo, and we’re the only people who can share those memories.”
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of these biopics, they can rest assured that Starr’s story will remain as authentic as the Beatles’ legendary music.
