Full Breakdown
Meghan Markle in Early Talks to Join Netflix’s “The Gentlemen” Amid UK Return
8/21/2026, 11:45:37 PM
Acting Return in the Works
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is reported to be in “very early” discussions to appear in a possible third season of Netflix’s crime-comedy series The Gentlemen. Sources say the conversations are still hypothetical because the series has not yet been officially renewed. No role has been identified, and no contract has been signed. Representatives for both Netflix and Markle declined to comment.
Context of the Sussexes’ Relocation
The acting talks surface days after Harry and Meghan announced they will relocate to the United Kingdom for an extended period, enrolling their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in British schools that begin in September. Their move aligns with a first-look deal with Netflix that began in 2020 and was renewed last year, under which they have produced documentaries, a lifestyle series, and a podcast.
Production Details of “The Gentlemen”
- Creator/Writer/Director: Guy Ritchie (creator) with co-writer Matthew Read; Ritchie and Eran Creevy direct.
- Lead Cast: Theo James (Eddie Horniman), Kaya Scodelario (Susie), Ray Winstone (Bobby), Vinnie Jones, Hugh Bonneville, among others.
- Season 2 Premiere: September 3 (scheduled).
- Production Companies: Moonage Pictures (part of ITV Studios) and Miramax Television for Netflix.
The series is a spin-off of Ritchie’s 2019 film of the same name and follows an English aristocrat who inherits a country estate that doubles as an underground cannabis empire.
Official Statements & Responses
Netflix declined to comment on the casting talks. Archewell Productions, the Sussexes’ media company, also declined to comment. In a 2018 interview with the BBC, Meghan said she did not view quitting acting as “giving anything up,” but rather as “a new chapter.” Her 2022 interview with Variety included the remark that she was “done” with acting, adding, “I guess never say never, but my intention is to absolutely not.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “I guess never say never, but my intention is to absolutely not,” — Meghan Markle, interview with *Forbes* (2022).
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Talks Status: Deadline describes the discussions as “very early” and “hypothetical,” while Variety notes the role is “being written.” Both agree no contract exists.
- Series Renewal: Multiple outlets (Deadline, Variety, Complex) state that a third season has not been officially ordered, making any casting contingent on a renewal decision.
- Role Details: No source has disclosed the character name, episode count, or storyline involvement.
What’s Next
If Netflix commissions a third season, the role would be written and potentially announced in a future press release. The Duchess’s cameo as herself in the upcoming Amazon MGM film *Close Personal Friends*—scheduled for release after a November 5 announcement—will mark her first on-screen appearance since 2018.
