Paul McCartney, who played a crucial role in freeing 30 activists, declined an offer to join a movie about a Russian attack on Greenpeace.
Despite pleas from BBC producers, concerns for the 81-year-old musician's safety led to his refusal.
Greenpeace members expressed their excitement when McCartney sent a letter to Russian leader Vladimir Putin in 2013, urging the release of detained activists. These activists were held for trying to climb a Russian oil rig in the Arctic.
The documentary On Thin Ice: Putin vs. Greenpeace reveals the dangers faced by activists as they clash with Putin's oil interests, leading to gunfire and imprisonment. Frank Hewetson, a key figure, shares his experience surviving isolation in a Russian prison by singing songs like those from The Great Escape.
According to The Mirror, Producer Clare Beavis explained, "We tried hard to interview [McCartney] but were told he was too busy. Despite our efforts, his team said he couldn't participate."
McCartney's involvement would have been significant, according to Beavis.
Speculation surrounds McCartney's absence, with some suggesting his team wanted to distance him from the film due to potential risks.
Beavis went on to say, "We took extensive security measures during filming and sought advice from experts to keep everyone safe."
Meanwhile, exciting news is circulating about the cast lineup for Sam Mendes' upcoming series of Beatles biopics. Screenrant reported that Mendes has secured the Fab Four for his four highly anticipated films.
The InSneider confirmed the casting scoop disclosing that Paul Mescal will portray Paul McCartney. This casting choice was previously rumored back in May.
According to the latest update from the outlet, Harris Dickinson will depict the John Lennon, while Barry Keoghan will take on the role of Ringo Starr. George Harrison will be played by Charlie Rowe. However, Sony, the distributor of Mendes' films, has neither confirmed nor denied these casting rumors.
In this series of four Beatles biopics, Mendes will direct each film individually, focusing on the unique perspective of each band member. These cinematic accounts aim to "tell the story of the greatest band in history."
The movies will reach audiences worldwide for a global release in 2027.
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