Sam Mendes’ ambitious biopic project, The Beatles — A Four-Film Cinematic Event, is moving closer to finalizing its full cast, with an Emmy-winning actress reportedly being considered to portray Yoko Ono. The four interconnected films will each focus on a different member of The Beatles, with Barry Keoghan, Paul Mescal, Harris Dickinson, and Joseph Quinn playing George Harrison, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, and Ringo Starr, respectively.

The main cast was first revealed during CinemaCon in April, but recent updates have added more high-profile names to the ensemble. Saoirse Ronan is set to play Linda McCartney, while Mia McKenna-Bruce will take on the role of Maureen Starkey, Ringo Starr’s first wife.

According to Variety, Mendes is currently in discussions with Shogun star Anna Sawai to portray Yoko Ono opposite Dickinson’s John Lennon. Sawai has previously been linked to the role through rumors but had denied involvement earlier this year, saying in March, “a rumor is just a rumor.”

In addition to Sawai, Aimee Lou Wood—known for her work in Sex Education and The White Lotus—is reportedly being considered to play Pattie Boyd, the British model who was George Harrison’s first wife. Interestingly, the real-life Pattie Boyd has already responded positively to the potential casting, sharing her excitement on X (formerly Twitter) and expressing hope to meet Wood in the future.

Although casting deals have not yet been officially confirmed, Mendes appears to be assembling a strong group of supporting actors to join his already impressive lineup. These developments suggest a growing focus on portraying the personal lives of The Beatles alongside their legendary music careers.

However, not all key figures have been cast. Notably absent from announcements so far are portrayals of Lennon’s first wife, Cynthia Lennon, who was also the mother of his son Julian, as well as other important individuals from the band’s early days such as original members Pete Best and Stuart Sutcliffe, and their influential manager Brian Epstein.

Still, the recent focus on casting the band members’ spouses—before other pivotal figures—hints at Mendes’ intention to deeply explore the interpersonal relationships that shaped the Fab Four’s story. By prioritizing these roles, the films may go beyond the stage and studio to capture how the Beatles’ private lives influenced their journey through fame, creativity, and eventual separation.

If deals with Sawai and Wood are finalized, Mendes will have taken a significant step in realizing what is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious and personal musical biopic projects to date. With an already stellar cast and a unique four-film structure, The Beatles — A Four-Film Cinematic Event promises an in-depth and multidimensional look at one of the most influential bands in history.