Ringo Starr Wanted The Beatles Reunion Without Paul McCartney — Why?

The Beatles reunion was once part of the band's plan - but without Paul McCartney.

McCartney, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison all wanted to reunite after the band split in 1970. However, John Lennon moved on fully from the band and pursued different endeavors.

Fans repeatedly asked the Fab Four for a reunion, something Starr approved. However, he suggested forming a new group without McCartney.

What Ringo Starr Said About The Beatles Reunion

In 1971, Starr had an interview with NME (via Far Out Magazine) during which he suggested a reunion featuring three members under a brand new name.

"I'd be in a band with John. I'd play with George," Starr shared. "We could be called the Ladders, it wouldn't have to be called The Beatles."

Lennon, however, told Playboy in 1980 that he wanted to join another band. The late musician said Starr was not serious when he talked about creating a new band, adding that he would never go back into a band with "a bunch of any people."

Although the reunion never happened, The Beatles released a song without Lennon.

The 1995 "The Beatles Anthology" presented documentary specials and albums, including the new song "Free as a Bird" which contained unfinished audio from the late member.

The song marked the first time they released a project since 1970. It did not disappoint as it secured No. 2 on the UK singles chart and No. 6 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

John Lennon Knew The Beatles Would Break Up

Three years before The Beatles breakup, its longtime manager Brian Epstein died of Carbrital overdose at the age of 32. A butler found him found unresponsive inside his bedroom, and his death was ruled accidental.

In an interview with Rolling Stone before his death, Lennon said he knew it was "the start of the end." He revealed that, after Epstein died, The Beatles were already in trouble.

Although The Beatles released the new album, "The White Album," a year after their manager's passing, Lennon said it felt like the band was already over. The tension between him and McCartney also intensified as the latter stepped up to act as the band's manager.

With that, the late member reportedly felt like the band was no longer progressing.

The Beatles officially disbanded on April 10, 1970.