Ringo Starr (September 5, 1972) "Keeping Out of Shape” Feature – The San Francisco Examiner
This San Francisco Examiner feature from September 5 1972, written by Roderick Mann, profiles Ringo Starr during his transition from musician to actor and film producer. The article highlights his latest project, Count Downe, and his reflections on post‑Beatles life, including his recent documentary work on Marc Bolan and T. Rex.
Publication: The San Francisco Examiner Date: September 5, 1972 Country: United States
Mann’s interview finds Ringo in London, relaxed yet introspective, discussing his film career and personal evolution. He describes shaving his beard for his role as Merlin in Count Downe, a fantasy‑horror production featuring characters like Frankenstein and The Mummy.
Ringo speaks candidly about his desire to be taken seriously as an actor, noting that he avoids trading on his Beatles fame. The article also reveals that Ringo had recently completed a full‑length documentary on Marc Bolan, capturing a concert and the fan frenzy surrounding T. Rex.
He recalls being struck by the sight of “kids dressed just like him,” comparing Bolan’s glam‑rock phenomenon to the Beatlemania of the 1960s. Ringo’s tone is affectionate and amused, acknowledging the cyclical nature of pop stardom.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
By 1972, Ringo Starr was exploring film production through Apple Films while maintaining ties to the music world.
His documentary on Marc Bolan coincided with T. Rex’s U.S. tour and the height of their international fame following The Slider.
The Examiner piece captures a moment of generational continuity — one pop icon observing another’s rise — and reflects Ringo’s growing interest in creative independence beyond the Beatles legacy.
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS
Event: Ringo Starr interview and mention of Marc Bolan documentary
Era: 1972 – Post‑Beatles T. Rex Glam Rock
Era
Tone: Reflective, humorous, and personal Photography: Black‑and‑white image of Ringo Starr at a London premiere before shaving his beard for Count Downe
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS
Ringo Starr interview discussing Count Downe and acting ambitions
Mention of his documentary on Marc Bolan and T. Rex
Reflections on Beatlemania and fame
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