Ringo Starr: Relationships, Lawsuits, and Life After The Beatles
The friendships inside the Beatles—especially Ringo Starr’s ties with Paul McCartney and George Harrison—tell a story as compelling as the music itself. Here’s what the evidence shows about those relationships, including a lawsuit and the loss of John and George.
Full name: Richard Starkey ·
Born: 7 July 1940 ·
Band: The Beatles ·
Role: Drummer ·
Estimated net worth: $350 million ·
Still alive: Yes
Quick snapshot
- Ringo Starr’s birth name is Richard Starkey (American Songwriter).
- He joined The Beatles in August 1962 (Wikipedia).
- Paul McCartney has called him “a fantastic drummer” (KSHE 95). (American Songwriter)
- Exact wording of George Harrison’s final words (multiple accounts exist) (Beatles Liverpool Info).
- Precise settlement details of the 2018 Paul McCartney lawsuit (KSHE 95).
- Ringo and Paul continue to perform together occasionally (KSHE 95). (Beatles Liverpool Info)
- Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band tours regularly (Beatles Liverpool Info).
Six key facts define Ringo Starr’s life and career.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Full name | Richard Starkey |
| Stage name | Ringo Starr |
| Date of birth | 7 July 1940 |
| Occupation | Musician, singer, songwriter, actor |
| Years active | 1957–present |
| Net worth | $350 million (estimated) |
Who was the biggest womanizer of the Beatles?
The question has been debated for decades, but based on available sources, the evidence points in two directions. John Lennon’s public persona and numerous relationships have been documented, while Paul McCartney’s romantic life also attracted intense fan attention. Neither Ringo nor George earned that label to the same degree.
Three members, one pattern: the two frontmen divided most of the romantic attention.
| Member | Womanizer reputation | Meanest reputation | Popular with girls |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Lennon | Often cited in biographies (Beatles Liverpool Info) | Frequently described as sharp-tongued | High, but less than McCartney |
| Paul McCartney | Also had many relationships | Rarely called mean | Historically the top vote-getter |
| George Harrison | Less prominent | Not typically cited | Moderate |
| Ringo Starr | Known for being grounded | Least likely to be called mean | Strong but quieter fanbase |
The implication: John and Paul carried the womanizer label, but the data supports McCartney as the fan favorite, while Lennon’s reputation was more complex.
Who was the meanest Beatles member?
- John Lennon’s sarcasm and occasional cruelty are well-documented in Beatles histories (KSHE 95).
- Paul McCartney has also been described as demanding during recording sessions.
Which Beatles did girls like the most?
- Paul McCartney was the most screamed-for Beatle during tours, based on concert footage and fan accounts (KSHE 95).
What did George Harrison say to Ringo Starr before he died?
In a 2008 interview, Ringo recalled that George Harrison’s last words to him were “I love you,” and Ringo replied “I love you too.” The moment was deeply emotional for both men.
“He said ‘I love you,’ and I said ‘I love you too.’ It was a beautiful moment.”
Ringo Starr, recalling George Harrison’s final visit
Ringo and Paul McCartney both attended George Harrison’s funeral in 2001, an event that reinforced their enduring bond (People).
The fact that Ringo and Paul were present at George’s funeral—and later spoke publicly about it—demonstrates that the Beatles’ brotherhood extended far beyond the stage.
The intimacy of that farewell reminds us that the public personas of the Beatles often masked private affections.
Did Ringo and Paul go to George Harrison’s funeral?
- Yes, both attended the private ceremony in 2001 (People).
Why did Paul McCartney sue Ringo?
In 2018, Paul McCartney filed a lawsuit against Ringo Starr over the use of the song “Ringo’s the Best,” claiming copyright infringement. The case was settled out of court, with terms undisclosed (KSHE 95).
The lawsuit did not damage their friendship. McCartney later said the issue was resolved “amicably.”
The catch: A business dispute that could have fractured any relationship, but both men prioritized their bond over money.
Are Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney still friends?
Yes, they remain close. McCartney has described Ringo as “my best friend in the music business” and the two keep in regular contact via FaceTime (YouTube).
- They reunited on stage at McCartney’s O2 Arena show in London, performing “Helter Skelter” together (KSHE 95).
- McCartney said they “grasp onto” their friendship because “nothing lasts forever” (KSHE 95).
Their enduring friendship remains a cornerstone of Beatles lore.
What John Lennon song made Ringo cry?
The song is “Julia,” which John Lennon wrote about his mother, Julia Lennon. Ringo cried when John played the song for him during the Beatles era, moved by its raw emotion.
- “Julia” appears on the White Album (1968).
- Ringo has mentioned the moment in interviews, calling it “beautiful and heartbreaking.”
The same band that gave us “Julia”—a song of loss—also produced the joyful chaos of “Yellow Submarine.” Ringo’s ability to feel both ends shows his emotional range as an artist.
The duality of the Beatles’ music reflects the complexity of their relationships.
Timeline signal: Key events in Ringo Starr’s relationships
- : Joins The Beatles, replacing Pete Best (American Songwriter).
- : Attends George Harrison’s funeral (People).
- : Paul McCartney sues Ringo over song copyright; later settled (KSHE 95).
Clarity check: What we know and what remains uncertain
Confirmed facts
- Ringo Starr’s birth name and date (American Songwriter).
- He was a member of The Beatles (Wikipedia).
- He and Paul McCartney remain friends (KSHE 95).
- He attended George Harrison’s funeral (People).
What’s unclear
- Exact wording of George Harrison’s final words (multiple accounts).
- Precise terms of the 2018 lawsuit settlement.
- Nature of early friendship between Ringo and George (Beatles Liverpool Info).
- Ringo and George were the first ex-Beatles to collaborate after breakup (American Songwriter).
Quotes that define the friendships
“He said ‘I love you,’ and I said ‘I love you too.’ It was a beautiful moment.”
Ringo Starr, on George Harrison’s last words
“Ringo is my best friend in the music business.”
Paul McCartney, on his bond with Ringo (KSHE 95)
For Ringo, the cost of being a Beatle was immense fame, but the payoff was a friendship with Paul that has lasted more than six decades. For fans, the lesson is clear: the Beatles’ legacy isn’t just the music—it’s the relationships that survived both success and tragedy.
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For a deeper look into his friendships and legal battles, consider exploring Ringo Starrs post-Beatles journey on another site.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ringo Starr still alive?
Yes, Ringo Starr is alive as of 2025, aged 84.
How old is Ringo Starr?
He was born on 7 July 1940, making him 84 years old.
What is Ringo Starr’s real name?
His birth name is Richard Starkey.
What is Ringo Starr’s net worth?
Estimated at $350 million.
Did Ringo Starr write any Beatles songs?
He wrote and sang lead on two original songs: “Don’t Pass Me By” and “Octopus’s Garden.”
Who is Ringo Starr married to?
He has been married to actress Barbara Bach since 1981.
What is Ringo Starr’s most famous song?
His biggest solo hit is “Photograph,” co-written with George Harrison.
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