Theo James, star of Netflix’s crime series "The Gentlemen," recently addressed rumors that Meghan Markle would join the show’s third season. The speculation began last August from Australian media and Deadline, suggesting that Markle was in early talks for a role, coinciding with news that she and Prince Harry were moving their family back to the UK after six years in Hollywood. However, James dismissed these casting rumors in a recent interview, calling them “a lot of hot air” and joked about another unlikely addition to the cast instead.

Reports by former editor Tina Brown indicated that Markle’s potential casting was ultimately scrapped due to intense backlash in the UK. Brown stated that the controversy made it untenable for the production to proceed with Markle’s involvement, undermining her hopes for an acting comeback in Britain. This situation emerged despite Markle’s prior appearances in Netflix projects such as the 2022 documentary series "Harry & Meghan" and her 2025 reality series "Love, Meghan."

Markle’s involvement in Netflix dramas has recently declined, as the streaming giant decided not to renew her and Prince Harry’s $100 million deal in 2026. This development has cast doubt on her future acting career, particularly in UK-based productions. Meanwhile, "The Gentlemen" series has been officially renewed for a third season, with James revealing that the show’s creators plan to broaden the story’s scope, potentially exploring new countries and expanding the series’ world.

James emphasized the focus now is on gaining traction for the show’s second season, which streams starting September 2026. While details about the upcoming season remain fluid, he noted that there are ambitious plans for the show’s future trajectory. Markle’s hoped-for return to scripted acting, however, appears stalled amid public backlash and shifting production decisions, revealing the complex intersection of celebrity, politics, and entertainment industry dynamics.