Midas Man

In 1961, Brian Epstein manages NEMS, his family's record store in Liverpool. He starts receiving numerous requests for a single by a local band, the Beatles, which piques his interest in the music industry.

Intrigued by their rising popularity, Brian attends a performance at the Cavern Club. He is captivated by the band's ability to engage the teenage audience and decides to approach them about management.

Despite his lack of experience, Brian offers to manage the Beatles, leveraging his understanding of their audience from his record store experience. The group accepts his offer, beginning their professional relationship.

In early 1962, Brian sets up an audition for the Beatles with Decca Records, but the audition does not go well. Decca executive Dick Rowe expresses skepticism about Brian's commitment to the band and their potential success.

Undeterred by the rejection from Decca, Brian approaches George Martin at Parlophone. After a successful audition, Martin encourages Brian to replace drummer Pete Best with Ringo Starr, leading to a new chapter for the Beatles.

With Ringo Starr on board, the Beatles release their first hits, 'Love Me Do' and 'From Me To You'. The band's popularity skyrockets, and they capture national attention, marking the beginning of Beatlemania.

Throughout 1963, Brian signs several Liverpudlian acts, expanding his management portfolio. This includes notable artists like Gerry and the Pacemakers and Cilla Black, who starts as the Cavern's coat check girl.

Brian faces a personal crisis when a man from a past encounter attempts to blackmail him. Despite his parents’ urge to go to the police, Brian decides to deal with the situation quietly, fearful of public scrutiny.

Feeling the pressure of the Beatles' growing fame, Brian reveals his decision to move to London. His increased workload leads to a worsening dependence on barbiturates and stimulants to cope with stress.

In 1964, Brian travels to America to secure an appearance for the Beatles on 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. During this trip, he meets Tex Ellington, and their connection offers Brian a glimpse of companionship amidst his busy life.

The Beatles' performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, coupled with their hit 'I Want to Hold Your Hand', propels them to international fame. This marks the beginning of an intense and exhausting American tour.

By 1966, the Beatles decide to stop touring after a challenging Asian tour and controversies surrounding John Lennon. On the night of their final concert, Brian experiences betrayal when Tex steals a suitcase containing a large sum of money.

After the end of the Beatles' touring, the combination of stress, betrayal, and substance dependence leads Brian to suffer a nervous breakdown. This period marks a significant decline in his mental health.

In 1967, the Beatles are invited to perform on 'Our World', the first global television broadcast. Brian plays a key role in suggesting a new song with a hopeful message, reflecting his desire for positivity.

In September 1967, Brian's father, Harry, passes away, leaving him devastated. Just two months later, Brian dies from an accidental barbiturate overdose, marking a tragic end to his extraordinary but tumultuous life.