(CNN) –– Ringo Starr is ready to see Barry Keoghan play drums… like Ringo Starr.
The Beatle recently sat in a interview with Entertainment Tonight’s Kevin Frazier, who asked Starr what he thinks about speculation that “Saltburn” star Keoghan has been cast as him in the upcoming Beatles biographical films from director Sam Mendes.
“I think it’s great. “I think he’s somewhere taking drum lessons and I hope not too many,” the Beatles drummer said, apparently confirming Keoghan’s choice.
Keoghan’s name has long been in the crosshairs to play Starr, but a source with knowledge of the matter told CNN on Wednesday that despite the legendary musician’s comments, “there are no casting deals yet.”
CNN has reached out to representatives for Starr, Keoghan and Sony Pictures Entertainment, the film’s production company, for comment.
Sony announced in February that Mendes will direct four independent biographical films that will tell the story of the Beatles through the eyes of each of its members: Paul McCartney, Starr and the late John Lennon and George Harrison.
Since then, it speculum that actors Paul Mescal and Harris Dickinson, among others, are involved to play other members of the Fab Four.
In May, Mescal boarded speculation and told GQ that he would “love to participate, but nothing is decided.”
According to a press release, each film will be told from the point of view of each band member and will collectively “intersect to tell the amazing story of the greatest band ever.” Mendes, who won an Oscar in 2000 for best director for “American Beauty,” had full access to the Beatles’ life stories and the music for the films, according to the statement.
Each film will have its own theatrical release in 2027, with exact dates to be announced closer to their debut.
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