Anna Sawai takes on Yoko Ono and Monarch's return in 2024–2028
Two major projects are set to hit screens in the coming months and years, both featuring actress Anna Sawai. The second season of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters arrives on Apple TV+ later this month, with Sawai reprising her role as Cate Randa. Meanwhile, she has also joined the cast of Sam Mendes' highly anticipated Beatles biopics, playing Yoko Ono in the four-film series due in 2028.
Sawai first gained recognition in the J-pop group FAKY before transitioning into acting. She later appeared in Shōgun and now stars in Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Season 2, premiering on February 27. This time, her character Cate Randa stops running from her past and instead embraces her family's legacy. The new season introduces fresh monsters, each with their own backstories, designed to connect with audiences. Alongside Sawai, the cast includes Kiersey Clemons, Kurt Russell, Wyatt Russell, and Anders Holm, among others.
Beyond Monarch, Sawai has taken on a new challenge: portraying Yoko Ono in Sam Mendes' Beatles biopics. She has spent months researching Ono's life, art, and influence to bring depth to the role. The films aim to explore lesser-known aspects of Ono's story, offering a fresh perspective. The four biopics, each focusing on a different band member, will premiere simultaneously in theaters on April 7, 2028. Harris Dickinson plays John Lennon, Paul Mescal takes on Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn portrays George Harrison, and Barry Keoghan stars as Ringo Starr.
Mendes confirmed all four films are now officially in production, with casting and release dates finalised.
Sawai's dual roles mark a busy period for the actress, from Monarch's return to her involvement in one of cinema's most anticipated musical movies. The Beatles films will arrive in theaters in 2028, while Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Season 2 begins streaming on Apple TV+ on February 27. Both projects promise to showcase her range as an performer in very different stories.
