Image Source: Town & Country Magazine
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex is once again at the center of speculation surrounding Netflix’s hit crime drama The Gentlemen. Theo James, who plays Eddie Horniman, the 13th Duke of Halstead, has dismissed reports that Meghan Markle could join the series, describing the rumors as “hot air.”
The comments arrived just ahead of the show’s highly anticipated second-season premiere. Speaking with Town & Country, James responded to questions about whether the Duchess of Sussex might appear in the third season of Guy Ritchie’s series.
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex Casting Rumors Addressed
James initially answered with a joke. With a smile, he said, “Yes, Fergie is joining. She’ll be playing my love interest,” referring to Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York.
He then clarified his remarks and offered a more direct response to the ongoing reports about Meghan’s possible involvement.
“No, I think that was mainly a lot of hot air,” James said. The actor explained that the creative team is currently focused on the second season and on bringing new viewers to the Netflix series. Plans for a third season may already be taking shape, but specific casting decisions have not been finalized.
“At the moment, we’re just trying to get as many eyes on season two, and then season three will happen soon,” James said. He added that the show’s broader direction is being discussed, while the finer details remain undecided.
What Sparked the Meghan Markle Reports?
Speculation about Meghan joining The Gentlemen intensified after reports about her and Prince Harry’s potential move back to the United Kingdom, as well as renewed interest in Meghan’s return to acting.
According to Deadline, Meghan was reportedly in talks to appear in the show’s third season. The reports quickly attracted attention because Meghan and Harry maintain a first-look agreement with Netflix, where they have several projects in development across film and television.
However, other reports suggested that no formal role had ever been offered. The situation became even more intriguing after Manda Levin, Netflix’s UK scripted chief, was asked about the rumored casting at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
Levin offered a cryptic response: “All bets are off.” While the statement did not confirm Meghan’s involvement, it kept the possibility alive and fueled further conversation among royal watchers and television fans.
The Gentlemen Season Two Heads in a Bigger Direction
While the casting speculation continues, James is focused on the future of the show itself. The second season spends time within the world of Italian aristocracy, blending inherited wealth, criminal ambition, family conflict, and dark humor.
For a potential third season, James said the series could expand into new international settings. He expressed particular interest in exploring the Middle East, describing the region as culturally rich and complex. He also admitted that, on a more personal level, he would enjoy seeing the story move to the south of France.
- The second season explores Italian aristocratic society.
- James hopes future episodes will visit new countries.
- The actor is interested in stories involving wealth, power, and corruption.
- Season three remains in development, with details still unsettled.
Why Fans Remain Fascinated by the Series
James believes The Gentlemen appeals to viewers because it combines glamour with danger. The series offers sprawling estates, old titles, luxury, and extravagant criminal schemes, but its characters remain vulnerable to family pressure and personal mistakes.
“People are fascinated by the idea of wealth and how wealth can corrupt people,” James said. He also noted that the show explores Britain’s complicated imperial history beneath its polished surface.
The actor said his responsibility is to keep the story grounded. Without believable stakes, he explained, even the most outrageous plot twists can lose their impact. In season two, Eddie is pushed to make difficult choices, confront regret, fall in love, and deal with betrayal.
That deeper character development is one of the major changes James hopes audiences will notice. He said the new season retains the humor and ambition of the first installment while adding more moral conflict and emotional complexity.
When Does The Gentlemen Season Two Premiere?
The Gentlemen season two premieres on Netflix on Thursday, September 3. The launch is expected to draw renewed attention to the series and may help determine whether Netflix moves forward with a third season.
For now, Meghan Markle’s reported role remains unconfirmed. James’s comments suggest that fans should treat the rumors cautiously, even as Netflix’s earlier response leaves the door open to further surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Meghan Markle joining The Gentlemen?
There is no confirmed announcement that Meghan Markle will join the series. Reports have suggested she was in talks for season three, but Theo James called the speculation “hot air.”
What did Theo James say about Meghan, Duchess of Sussex?
James joked that Sarah Ferguson would play his love interest before saying the reports about Meghan were largely “hot air.” He said season three details remain uncertain.
When does The Gentlemen season two premiere?
The second season of The Gentlemen premieres on Netflix on Thursday, September 3.
Who stars in The Gentlemen?
The series stars Theo James as Eddie Horniman, the 13th Duke of Halstead. The second season also features returning and new cast members, including Kaya Scodelario and Benedetta Porcaroli.
