Theo James Addresses Meghan Markle Casting Rumors for 'The Gentlemen'

<figure><img alt="(L-R): Theo James (Netflix), Meghan Markle (REUTERS/Caitlin Ochs)" src="https://thedailybeast-thedailybeast-prod.web.arc-cdn.net/resizer/v2/POTOUNR2MJASZLXULPHIBX6D6Y.png?auth=bcf1dad67552cad6c464281c7895b62e08581d54051e2c62853cc83f84e35f2c&amp;smart=true&amp;width=3000&amp;height=1688" /><figcaption>REUTERS, Netflix</figcaption></figure><p>Theo James, 41, known for his role in <i>The Gentlemen</i>, has addressed rumors regarding Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, potentially joining the cast for Season 3 of the Netflix series. When questioned about the possibility of Markle appearing on the show, James humorously responded, “Yes, Fergie is joining. She’ll be playing my love interest.”</p><p>He further commented, “No, I think that was mainly a lot of hot air,” referring to the speculation surrounding Markle’s casting in the series directed by Guy Ritchie. James indicated that the focus is currently on promoting Season 2, which is set to premiere on September 3, and that plans for Season 3 are still in development.</p><p>The rumors about Markle began when royal commentator Bronte McCoy mentioned on the BBC that Markle had been in early discussions for a role in the third season. Markle and Prince Harry recently relocated from California to the U.K. and enrolled their children in British schools, leading to speculation about a connection to the potential acting role.</p><p>Tom Sykes from The Daily Beast reported that although Markle’s representatives have not commented on the rumors, “sources close to Meghan hinted to me that the rumor was true.” Additionally, Netflix’s U.K. scripted chief Manda Levin made a vague remark at the Edinburgh TV Festival, stating, “All bets are off” regarding the Duchess’ involvement.</p><p>Royal expert Tina Brown later suggested in her Substack, Fresh Hell, that the casting had been “withdrawn,” citing intense backlash in the U.K. that made it difficult to proceed with the casting.</p><p>Despite the ongoing speculation, James expressed enthusiasm for the future of the show, noting plans to expand the narrative and explore different locations in Season 3.</p>