James Norton, known for his roles in "Happy Valley," "War & Peace," and the upcoming "House of the Dragon" season 3, has been cast as Brian Epstein in the highly anticipated Beatles biopic series. The announcement, confirmed on October 14th, marks a significant addition to the ambitious four-part film project titled "The Beatles — A Four-Film Cinematic Event".
Directed by Sam Mendes, the biopic will offer a unique perspective by dedicating one film to each band member. Norton joins a star-studded cast including Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. Saoirse Ronan will play Linda McCartney, while Anna Sawai will portray Yoko Ono. Aimee Lou Wood is in talks to play George Harrison's wife, Pattie Boyd, and Mia McKenna-Bruce will appear as Ringo Starr's first wife, Maureen Starkey.
Norton will portray Brian Epstein, often referred to as the "fifth Beatle," who discovered the band in 1961 and guided them from their Liverpool roots to international superstardom. Epstein's keen eye for talent and business acumen were instrumental in shaping the Beatles' image and securing their record contract. He transformed them from a local act into a global phenomenon by changing their leather outfits to suits and teaching them gentlemanly on-stage etiquette. Epstein managed the group until his untimely death in 1967 at age 32 due to a drug overdose. Many fans believe his death contributed to the band's split.
The four films are scheduled to be released in April 2028 by Sony Pictures Entertainment. This marks the first time The Beatles and Apple Corps Ltd. have granted permission to use the band's story and music in scripted films. The project is a collaboration between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Mendes' Neal Street Productions. Mendes, Pippa Harris, and Julie Pastor of Neal Street, along with Alexandra Derbyshire, will produce the films in association with Apple Corps for Sony Pictures. The screenplays are written by Jez Butterworth, Peter Straughan, and Jack Thorne, with Greig Fraser handling cinematography.
James Norton has garnered acclaim for his performances in various British television series, including "Happy Valley," for which he received a BAFTA nomination, "Grantchester," "War & Peace," "McMafia," and "House of Guinness". He also appears in "House of the Dragon" season 3. His film credits include "An Education", "Rush", "Little Women", and "Mr. Jones".
Brian Epstein's story was recently depicted in the 2024 biopic "Midas Man," starring Jacob Fortune-Lloyd. Epstein discovered The Beatles after a fan requested their record "My Bonnie" at his record store, leading him to see them perform at the Cavern Club in Liverpool.
