Hugh Bonneville is set to portray a dramatically different character in the second series of Netflix's 'The Gentlemen,' streaming next week. In contrast to his reserved portrayal of Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham, in 'Downton Abbey,' Bonneville embraces a "super-camp toff" persona as Lord "Dickie" Hawthorne.
The series introduces Lord Hawthorne at a shooting event hosted by Eddie Horniman, played by Theo James. Horniman, who is seeking to influence marijuana legislation, is depicted as desiring entry into the House of Lords. Lord Hawthorne is suggested to play a significant role in these endeavors.
Described by drug kingpin Bobby Glass, portrayed by Ray Winstone, as a "posh c***," Bonneville's character is characterized by his flamboyant behavior. He is shown to be fond of drinking, swearing, and consuming oysters, with his dancing likened to that of Louie Spence in Ibiza. During a cocktail conversation, Lord Hawthorne remarks to Eddie, "I know I look like a useless old fruit, but I do know when I'm being worked, lubed, greased over."
The series has also generated buzz with speculation about Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, potentially appearing in a third season. Netflix alluded to this possibility in a press release for the second season, concluding with the enigmatic phrase: "ABOUT THE GENTLEMEN S3 ...Your guess is as good as mine."