Meghan Markle will not appear in the third season of Guy Ritchie's Netflix series The Gentlemen, according to reports, with Trainspotting star Robert Carlyle said to have been confirmed for the show instead.
The Duchess of Sussex had been rumoured to be returning to acting after several years away from the screen, with speculation suggesting she could join the cast of the hit drama, which already features Theo James and Vinnie Jones.
Robert Carlyle reportedly joins the cast
The Sun reports that Robert Carlyle has been "confirmed" for the programme. A source told the publication: "The Gentlemen is going from strength to strength and everyone is desperate to make it work. Robert is an industry icon and Theo himself made it clear he wanted him to be part of the show."
Theo James previously said: "In terms of people I would like to see on the show, I would like someone psychopathic like old-school Robbie Carlyle."
Meghan Markle out of contention
The source added: "Meghan though is now out of contention. There was a meeting but it's been decided she won't be part of the cast."
Earlier reports claimed an "offer was withdrawn" after "intense backlash" from UK audiences, with former Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Tina Brown saying: "It became untenable to go forward." Other sources, however, claimed a formal offer was never made, and only an initial meeting had taken place.
Cast reactions to Meghan rumours
Theo James previously addressed the speculation, saying: "I think it's spurious rumours. I think she'd fit in well because she's actually from part of the Royal Family. But no, I think the practicalities of that are impossible."
Vinnie Jones also commented: "I think it's a genius piece of marketing by whoever just dreamt up that idea. I suggested Nigel Farage – I think that's a great run-up. That would be very good."
