Irish actor Paul Mescal is a favourite to be cast as a Beatle in one of Sam Mendes's planned biopics on the legendary band.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Maynooth native is "near the top of the list for major studio roles, including as one of the Fab Four in Sam Mendes' coming Beatles movies." The list also includes the likes of Austin Butler, Jacob Elordi and Glen Powell.

Planned for release in 2027, Mendes is said to be lining up four individual biopics - one from the point of view of each band member. The project marks the first time Apple Corps and the respective families of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.

Mendes is best known for his work on films such as the Oscar-winning American Beauty, as well as James Bond movies Skyfall and Spectre.

Elsewhere, Academy Award-nominated Mescal is due to appear as the lead in Ridley Scott's highly anticipated Gladiator II later this year, the sequel to the 2000 box office smash featuring Russell Crowe.

Have you heard the news? Oh boy. We all support the Sam Mendes movie project. Yes, indeed. peace and love.😎🎶🌈✌️🌟❤️☮️ pic.twitter.com/byhnmVqsHY

— #RingoStarr (@ringostarrmusic) February 20, 2024