Paul McCartney has sent warm birthday wishes to his “dear friend” and former Beatles bandmate Ringo Starr, who turned 85, July 7.
Taking to social media, the 83-year-old music legend posted a touching tribute featuring a photo of the two friends, taken by his late wife, photographer Linda McCartney. “A very happy birthday to my dear friend, Ringo (or should I say, Sir Richard),” McCartney wrote. “I hope you have a wonderful day full of love. – Paul.”
Starr, born Richard Starkey in Liverpool, marked the occasion with his annual “peace and love” birthday campaign. Each year on July 7, he invites fans around the world to pause at exactly 12 noon local time to say, think, or post the message “peace and love,” promoting global unity and kindness.
The celebration of Starr’s milestone birthday extended far beyond McCartney’s post. Zak Starkey, Starr’s son and an accomplished drummer in his own right, also shared birthday messages, as did Sean Ono Lennon, son of the late John Lennon and artist Yoko Ono.
In Liverpool, The Beatles’ hometown, the Beatles Story Museum joined in the celebrations. The museum hosted a special arts and crafts workshop in honor of the peace and love campaign. Visitors also had the opportunity to take photos beside a sculpture of a hand making the peace sign, which was crafted using an original casting of Starr’s right hand — a symbolic tribute to his signature message.
Starr’s enduring legacy as the beloved drummer of The Beatles, peace advocate, and musical icon continues to inspire fans around the globe. His birthday tradition, which started in 2008, has grown into an international moment of reflection and positivity.
As Starr turns 85, tributes like McCartney’s highlight not only their enduring friendship but also the timeless impact of The Beatles — a band that forever changed the face of music and culture.
