Barry Keoghan opens up about online abuse and his Beatles biopic role
Barry Keoghan has opened up about the challenges of online abuse and its impact on his life. The actor, known for his roles in Saltburn and The Banshees of Inisherin, recently stepped back from social media—but the effects of public scrutiny still linger. Now, as he prepares to take on the role of Ringo Starr in four upcoming Beatles biopics, he reflects on both the highs and lows of his career.
Keoghan has faced persistent online harassment, particularly about his appearance. The abuse has grown so intense that he admitted it sometimes makes him reluctant to leave his home. His concerns extend beyond himself—he worries about how such hate might affect his young son in the future.
Despite withdrawing from social media, he still finds himself drawn to online discussions. Even at high-profile events like the Vanity Fair Oscars party, he can't escape reminders of his most talked-about moments, such as the infamous *Murder On The Dancefloor* scene from *Saltburn*. His career, however, remains a bright spot. He recently compared his role as Tommy Shelby's son in the *Peaky Blinders* movie to playing Simba in *The Lion King*, noting the emotional weight of father-son relationships in both. Meanwhile, the first official images of him and his co-stars in character for the Beatles biopics have yet to be released, though anticipation is building. Directed by Sam Mendes, the four films will drop simultaneously in 2028, with Keoghan portraying Ringo Starr. He has described his co-stars as 'brothers,' hinting at a strong bond formed during production. His personal life has also drawn attention. After his breakup with Sabrina Carpenter, he called out what he described as 'disgusting' behaviour from some of her fans.
Keoghan continues to navigate the pressures of fame while preparing for one of his biggest roles yet. The Beatles biopics mark a major milestone in his career, but the shadow of online abuse remains. His experiences highlight the ongoing struggle many public figures face between professional success and personal well-being.
