Netflix has denied claims that it "used" Meghan Markle to promote the second season of The Gentlemen, following accusations from a friend of the Duchess that she was recruited as a publicity stunt.
The denial comes weeks after rumours emerged that Meghan was joining the cast of the hit show, around the same time it was confirmed she would be returning to the UK with Prince Harry and their two children. Those talks have since been squashed, but Netflix has now responded.
Netflix Responds to Stunt Casting Claims
Speaking to The Times, an insider said: "This is not a show in need of stunt casting."
The response follows an accusation from a friend of Meghan, who told The Telegraph: "Some people in her camp feel she was used to help promote season two, because they knew it wasn't as good as the first season and had already commissioned a third [series]. It's the oldest marketing trick in the book: get a big name to read a script, then leak that you're 'in conversation' with them when, in reality, nothing is particularly far along."
Sussex Camp Left With 'Sour Taste'
The friend added: "The whole thing left a bit of a sour taste in the Sussex camp's mouth. Needless to say, Netflix got what it wanted: huge viewing figures for season two and a lot of publicity."
Netflix has not commented further on the matter, and no official statement has been issued by Meghan or Prince Harry.
