Ridley Scott’s plans to collaborate with Paul Mescal again might face a delay— this time, courtesy of the Beatles.

During a discussion with filmmaker Christopher Nolan following a screening of Scott’s latest project, ‘Gladiator II,’ at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles, Scott revealed his next planned feature: the thriller ‘The Dog Stars.’ When Nolan inquired about rumors of Mescal starring in the new project, Scott initially confirmed the report. However, he then backtracked, noting that Mescal’s packed schedule might prevent their reunion. According to Scott, Mescal is tied up with a high-profile Beatles biopic project directed by Sam Mendes for Sony Pictures.

“Yes,” Scott initially said when asked if Mescal would star in ‘The Dog Stars.’ But the filmmaker quickly added, “Maybe… Paul is actually stacked up, doing the Beatles next. So I may have to let him go.”

Although Sony has yet to confirm the casting, rumors suggest Mescal is a frontrunner to portray Paul McCartney in Mendes’ ambitious plan to create four biographical films about the legendary Fab Four. Each film is expected to focus on a different band member — McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr — and will be released theatrically.

Last month, Mescal addressed speculation about his potential role as McCartney in an interview with Entertainment Tonight. “It would be an incredible story to be part of,” the actor admitted. “The fact that Sam Mendes is directing — it would truly be a dream come true.” However, when pressed further about the casting, Mescal remained tight-lipped: “No, no, no— we’re not going there.”

Meanwhile, Ringo Starr shared with Entertainment Tonight that Barry Keoghan is slated to play him in the films and has already begun drum lessons to prepare for the role. Additionally, Joseph Quinn has reportedly been considered for a part, though specifics remain under wraps.

At the time of Starr’s remarks, no official deals had been finalized for any of the cast members. Representatives for Sony have not commented on Scott’s statements about Mescal’s involvement.

Sony Pictures chief Tom Rothman previously emphasized the groundbreaking nature of the project, which has secured approval from the Beatles’ label, Apple Corps. “This isn’t a traditional biopic, and it requires an equally bold approach to its release strategy,” Rothman told The Hollywood Reporter. “We’re venturing into uncharted territory with this one.”

Paul Mescal has continued to make waves in the entertainment industry, earning an Emmy nomination for his role in ‘Normal People’ and an Oscar nomination for his performance in the critically acclaimed ‘Aftersun.’

If the Beatles project comes to fruition, it could mark yet another milestone in his rapidly rising career.

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