The reported casting of the Duchess of Sussex in the third season of Guy Ritchie’s Netflix series The Gentlemen has been withdrawn after a fierce backlash in the UK made the project untenable, according to former Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Tina Brown. The development follows earlier reports that Meghan Markle was in discussions to make her return to acting in the crime series, which serves as a spin-off to the 2019 film starring Matthew McConaughey and Charlie Hunnam.
The Backlash Over The Gentlemen Casting
According to Tina Brown, writing in her “Fresh Hell” newsletter, the intense public reaction in Britain ultimately led to the decision to drop the duchess from the upcoming production. “I learned this morning that the casting of Meghan Markle in season 3 of Guy Ritchie’s Netflix series The Gentlemen has been withdrawn,” Brown stated, adding that “the backlash in the UK was so intense, it became untenable to go forward.” Industry observers noted that the role would have marked a return to the screen for the former actress after she stepped away from her role as Rachel Zane in the legal drama Suits.
Context of the Sussex Relocation to the UK
The casting news emerged alongside reports that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are planning a return to live in Britain this month, six years after relocating to the United States. According to understanding surrounding the move, Prince Harry, Meghan, and their two children—Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five—are expected to relocate to a property believed to be outside London. King Charles was reportedly informed of the family’s upcoming relocation plans.
Previous Acting Roles and Streaming Projects
Before marrying Prince Harry in 2018, Meghan enjoyed a seven-season run on Suits and appeared in small-screen projects including CSI: NY and 90210, alongside film roles in Horrible Bosses and Anti-Social. Following their departure from working royal duties, the couple signed a multi-year deal with Netflix reportedly worth $100m (£78m). Her primary release under the partnership, the lifestyle series With Love, Meghan, drew harsh critiques, including a one-star review from the Guardian labeling it “toe-curling stuff.” More recently, she filmed a cameo appearance playing herself in the upcoming Amazon comedy Close Personal Friends alongside Brie Larson and Jack Quaid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Meghan Markle officially cast in The Gentlemen?
No. While reports indicated she was in discussions for season three of the Netflix series, author Tina Brown reported that the potential casting offer was subsequently withdrawn due to intense public backlash in the UK.
What was Meghan Markle’s last major acting role?
Her last major television role was playing Rachel Zane in the legal drama Suits, which she departed in 2018 prior to her marriage to Prince Harry.
Are Prince Harry and Meghan returning to live in the UK?
Yes, reports indicate the Duke and Duchess of Sussex plan to relocate from the US back to Britain with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, to live in a property believed to be outside London.
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