Anna Sawai Reacts to Rumors About Her Playing Yoko Ono in Sam Mendes’ Beatles Movies

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Anna Sawai is currently a highly sought-after talent in Hollywood — however, the acclaimed star of Shōgun has reacted ambiguously to the speculation surrounding her potential portrayal of Yoko Ono in the eagerly awaited Beatles films.

In an interview with Us Weekly and various media at the SAG Awards, where she received the honor for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for her role in the sweeping historical drama, the 32-year-old star described the Ono rumors as nothing more than conjecture.

"I believe a rumor is simply a rumor," she remarked. "I'm still trying to determine what I wish to pursue, so I am reviewing numerous scripts. I am also engaging in many discussions, and I want to ensure that whatever choices I make are the right ones. It may take time for me to discover the fitting projects, but I am aiming to be discerning so that I can astonish those who will be watching."

Sawai stepping into such a legendary role would indeed be a delightful surprise, especially alongside other prominent and exciting names rumored to be involved in the Sam Mendes project. Although no official casting announcements have been made, Deadline reports that Paul Mescal is anticipated to portray Paul McCartney, with Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, and Harris Dickinson as John Lennon.

If everything proceeds according to plan, Mendes' series of films, slated for release in 2027, will showcase a collection of talented young actors. This will also signify the first instance where The Beatles and Apple Corps Ltd have authorized the iconic British band's life narratives and music to be featured in scripted films.

Sawai’s SAG Award adds to her growing list of accolades for her role in Shōgun. She has also won an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series — marking her as the first actress of Asian heritage to achieve this feat — as well as a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a TV Drama.

While speaking with the press, she expressed mixed feelings about receiving so many awards, given that she is not contracted for a second season. "I don't believe this is something you really acclimate to," she said. "It's also, I suppose, just the affection I hold for the entire team and the recognition that I likely won't have the chance to celebrate with them in quite the same way again, that this truly is the final opportunity for me to represent Mariko…. So all of that stirred up quite a bit of emotion in me because I care for the team deeply."