The upcoming Beatles biopic series features an impressive cast, but not everyone got the roles they sought. Asa Butterfield, known for his role in “Sex Education,” recently disclosed that he auditioned for the part of George Harrison.
Asa Butterfield’s Audition for George Harrison
At 29, Butterfield is among several British actors who auditioned for pivotal roles in the biopic. The series, which comprises four films, aims to highlight the individual journeys of the iconic members of The Beatles. Ultimately, the role of Harrison was awarded to Joseph Quinn.
Cast and Characters
- Joseph Quinn: George Harrison
- Harris Dickinson: John Lennon
- Paul Mescal: Paul McCartney
- Barry Keoghan: Ringo Starr
Butterfield expressed a wistful sentiment about missing out on the role. In an interview with The Times, he stated, “There are roles that you really, really want.” He acknowledged that, in the film industry, some opportunities lead to others that may be equally rewarding.
High-Profile Rejections and Moving On
Butterfield’s experience with rejection is not unique. He also auditioned for the role of Spider-Man before the character’s third reboot, which ultimately went to Tom Holland. Reflecting on these experiences, he noted, “You have your audition and after that it’s out of your hands.” He emphasized the importance of moving forward after auditions, regardless of the outcomes.
The Beatles Biopic Overview
The Beatles biopic series is being produced by Sony and will feature direction by Sam Mendes. The casting announcement took place in April of last year, generating significant anticipation. Mendes has teased that this project will present “the first binge-able theatrical experience.”
Leading Ladies of The Beatles
| Character | Actress |
|---|---|
| Pattie Boyd | Aimee Lou Wood |
| Linda McCartney | Saoirse Ronan |
| Maureen Starkey | Mia McKenna-Bruce |
| Yoko Ono | Anna Sawai |
Aimee Lou Wood shared her thoughts on portraying Boyd, saying it feels “quite intimidating” because of the familiarity the audience has with these iconic figures. Butterfield may not have landed a part in this high-profile project, but he continues to keep busy with other roles.
Since “Sex Education” concluded in 2023, Butterfield has appeared in the drama “Our Hero,” the Uber One campaign featuring Robert De Niro, and Netflix’s psychological thriller “Unchosen.”
