Meghan Markle continues to be in discussions regarding a potential role in Guy Ritchie's Netflix series "The Gentlemen," according to sources cited by People magazine. These statements emerge amidst conflicting reports about the Duchess of Sussex's involvement in the show.
Initial reports surfaced last Friday from Australian website News.com.au, suggesting Markle was considering an acting role as part of her anticipated return to Britain with Prince Harry. Shortly after, Hollywood publication Deadline reported that preliminary talks were underway for a possible part in an unconfirmed third season of the gangster drama.
However, royal author Tina Brown stated on Saturday that any offer had been withdrawn due to intense backlash that made the prospect untenable. Adding to the uncertainty, Variety reported that the show had been renewed for a third season, with scripts in development but casting yet to be finalized. The publication included a statement from creator Guy Ritchie, who reportedly had direct discussions with Markle, but did not mention her.
People magazine, known for its close ties to the Sussexes, subsequently reported that Markle "remains in talks despite recent reports to the contrary, though no deal has been finalized." Simultaneously, Netflix released a new trailer for the upcoming second season of "The Gentlemen," which stars Theo James and Kaya Scodelario.
Neither Netflix nor a representative for the Sussexes have provided official comment on the matter.
Industry experts have suggested that the reports linking Markle to the show could be a strategic public relations tactic to generate buzz around her and the Sussexes' presence in the UK. Some believe that Netflix executives were unaware of any potential offer, indicating direct discussions between Markle and Ritchie.
Speculation suggests that these discussions might be intended to portray Markle as in high demand and to underscore the ongoing relationship between her and Netflix. PR expert Mark Borkowski commented that the timing of these revelations, during a quieter news cycle in August, suggests an ulterior motive to generate attention. He noted the plausibility of a coordinated effort between publicists, even if it was a publicity stunt, to benefit from the ensuing attention.
Sean O'Meara, managing director of Essential Content, stated that leaking unconfirmed developments is common in various industries, including entertainment. PR expert Andy Barr added that expressing interest in an actor is a long-standing tactic used by talent seeking work.
The Sussexes have a significant deal with Netflix, initially agreeing to a $100 million contract in 2020 and later signing a new first-look agreement. Markle had a minor role in the upcoming film "Close Personal Friends" and appeared as a guest judge on "MasterChef Australia."
While Markle previously expressed a desire for West End theatre roles and has a history of attending theatre productions, she has also stated in the past that she had no plans to return to acting. Her acting career, which included a seven-season role as Rachel Zane in the legal drama "Suits," was paused after her engagement to Prince Harry. Before "Suits," she had roles in shows like "CSI: Miami" and "Fringe," as well as films such as "Horrible Bosses."