Meghan Markle has reportedly been considered for a role in Guy Ritchie's Netflix series, "The Gentlemen." An insider told Variety that the Duchess of Sussex was one of many names mentioned by Ritchie while brainstorming ideas for the third season of the gangster drama. However, the potential involvement is described as an "incredibly nascent concept" and was not considered substantial at any level.
Scripts for the third season are still in development, leaving open the possibility for a role to be created for Markle, who previously starred in the legal drama "Suits" for seven seasons. A source indicated that such a possibility should not be ruled out. The discussions, if any, may have occurred between the agents of Markle and Ritchie, both of whom are reportedly represented by William Morris Endeavor (WME).
Reports of Markle's potential involvement emerged last week, following an Australian website's claim that she was considering an acting role as part of her and Prince Harry's return to Britain. Hollywood publication Deadline later reported preliminary talks, though royal author Tina Brown suggested any offer had been withdrawn due to an intense backlash.
Despite conflicting reports, Variety confirmed on Monday that "The Gentlemen" has been renewed for a third season. Ritchie was quoted expressing enthusiasm for expanding the show's world, but did not mention Markle. Following this, People magazine reported that Markle "remains in talks despite recent reports to the contrary, though no deal has been finalised."
Industry experts have speculated that the timing of these rumors could be a public relations tactic to generate buzz around Markle's potential return to the UK. Some believe Netflix was unaware of any direct offer, suggesting conversations were solely between Markle and Ritchie. This strategy, they suggest, could be intended to portray Markle as in high demand and to reinforce her relationship with Netflix.
PR experts noted that leaking potential interest in an actor is a common tactic used by talent seeking work. The Sussexes have a production deal with Netflix, initially worth $100 million in 2020, and signed a new first-look contract last year. Markle recently appeared as a guest judge on "MasterChef Australia" and has a small cameo in the upcoming film "Close Personal Friends."
Meghan Markle had a role in the 2011 film "Horrible Bosses" and was a briefcase model on "Deal or No Deal" before her acting career was paused upon her engagement to Prince Harry. In 2017, she stated she viewed pausing her acting career as a change rather than a sacrifice, and in 2022, she told Variety she had no intention of returning to acting, though she did not completely rule out future possibilities.
In separate news, sources close to Prince Harry suggest he has missed his connection to the UK since moving to California. The family is reportedly planning an extended stay in Britain, with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, to be enrolled in UK schools. Harry is also set to be involved in preparations for the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham. Reports also indicate that King Charles III hopes for a reconciliation between his sons, Harry and Prince William.
Meanwhile, Meghan Markle has launched a new product, Spiced Apple Butter, for her lifestyle brand, As Ever. The launch coincides with the approaching autumn season. The Sussexes' chickens will remain at their California home while the family is in the UK.