The Internet Reacts to Beatles Sons’ Collaboration—And Dhani Harrison’s Totally George Move The sons of the Beatles are making headlines this summer—not for nostalgia, but for something new. In June 2025, Sean Ono Lennon, James McCartney, and Zak Starkey teamed up to release a track called “Rip Off,” a moody, modern rock song that immediately sparked comparisons to their famous fathers. But fans quickly noticed someone missing from this “Beatles 2.0” moment: Dhani Harrison, son of George. And leave it to the internet to do what it does best—turn his absence into a meme-worthy moment of cosmic alignment. “Dhani not showing up is the most George Harrison move possible,” one fan joked on social media. George, the self-described “quiet one,” was famously the first Beatle to mentally check out of the band’s chaos, retreating into spirituality, gardening, and solo artistry. And Dhani’s non-appearance? Let’s just say the apple didn’t fall far from the meditative tree. In fact, Dhani once revealed that he didn’t even know his dad was in the Beatles until classmates chased him on the playground singing “Yellow Submarine.” “Why didn’t you tell me you were in the Beatles?” he asked his father. George’s answer? “Oh, sorry. Probably should have told you that.” Classic George. To be clear, Sean, James, and Zak aren’t just Beatle babies riding coattails—they’re seasoned musicians with their own paths. But the symbolism of three Beatles sons forming a band while the fourth opts out? That irony is just too perfect to ignore.Beatles fans: What do you think—will Dhani eventually join them? Or is staying out exactly what his dad would’ve done?

The Internet Reacts to Beatles Sons’ Collaboration—And Dhani Harrison’s Totally George Move

In a year full of musical reunions and unexpected comebacks, one headline hit fans right in the nostalgia: the sons of the Beatles—Sean Ono Lennon (son of John), James McCartney (son of Paul), and Zak Starkey (son of Ringo)—have come together for a brand-new track, “Rip Off,” released in June 2025. Far from a novelty act, the moody, alternative rock tune showcases their individual talents while evoking a certain unmistakable heritage. But even as excitement surged, one question buzzed across social media like feedback from a vintage amp: Where’s Dhani?

Dhani Harrison, son of the late George Harrison, was noticeably absent from the so-called “Beatles 2.0” lineup. And true to internet form, fans didn’t miss a beat. Instead of disappointment, many responded with affectionate humor—and more than a little reverence for what felt like the most George Harrison move ever.

“Dhani not showing up is the most George Harrison move possible,” one fan quipped on X (formerly Twitter). Another added, “He’s probably in his garden or meditating somewhere, and honestly, that’s the right energy.”

The irony, of course, isn’t lost on longtime Beatles followers. George was famously the most reluctant Beatle when it came to fame and spectacle. While John and Paul often sparred over musical direction and Ringo played the peacekeeper, George retreated—both musically and spiritually—carving out a more introspective path. His post-Beatles career included masterpieces like All Things Must Pass, but his true joys were more personal: gardening, spirituality, family, and quiet.

So when fans learned that Dhani once didn’t even know his dad was in the Beatles—until classmates on the playground sang “Yellow Submarine” at him—it felt perfectly on brand. “Why didn’t you tell me?” Dhani reportedly asked. George’s legendary response: “Oh, sorry. Probably should have told you that.” Classic.

That same blend of low-key brilliance and quiet humility seems to live on in Dhani. An accomplished musician in his own right, he’s released acclaimed solo albums, collaborated with artists like Jeff Lynne and Benmont Tench, and even carried on his father’s legacy with performances of Concert for George. But he’s always maintained his own voice—never chasing the limelight, never forcing a connection to the Beatles brand.

Meanwhile, Sean, James, and Zak have all pursued serious musical careers as well—Zak most notably as the longtime drummer for The Who, Sean with a range of experimental projects, and James carving out his own singer-songwriter niche. Their collaboration on “Rip Off” isn’t some stunt—it’s a real song by real musicians, with real stakes. But the symbolism of three Beatles sons joining forces while the fourth bows out? That tension is pure Beatles poetry.

So will Dhani eventually join the trio? Maybe. Maybe not. And either way, it feels right. Because while the idea of a “Beatles 2.0” band is enticing, Dhani Harrison staying true to himself—true to George—is a tribute all its own.

As one fan put it best: “George wouldn’t have joined either. And that’s why we love them both.”