Anna Sawai is stepping into one of the most debated roles in music history, taking on the part of Yoko Ono in an ambitious Beatles biopic project directed by Sam Mendes.
The large-scale undertaking will unfold across four films, each told from the perspective of a different Beatles member. The movies are expected to debut simultaneously in theaters in April 2028, marking a rare and bold release strategy for a major studio project.
Speaking on the red carpet, Sawai reflected on the responsibility of portraying Ono, a figure long surrounded by controversy and public misunderstanding. “There’s so much about her that the public doesn’t truly understand,” she said in an interview with People. Sawai emphasized that Ono was a formidable artist in her own right, arguing that her independence and creative identity were often overshadowed by narratives tied to her relationship with John Lennon.
The actress shared that she feels a deep sense of privilege in bringing Ono’s story to life in a way that highlights her strength and artistic vision. Sawai noted that Ono’s boldness and refusal to conform made her a lightning rod for criticism during the Beatles era, something she hopes to explore with nuance and empathy.
The role marks another major milestone for Sawai, who won an Emmy in 2024 and a Golden Globe in 2025 for her performance in Sh?gun. Reflecting on her rapid rise, she acknowledged how recently she was auditioning for any opportunity that came her way. Now, she says, she’s grateful to be in a position where she can be selective about the projects she takes on.
