Theo James has seemingly delivered the biggest blow yet to reports that Meghan Markle could join The Gentlemen for its third season. The actor addressed the much discussed casting speculation in a new interview, just as Netflix’s crime comedy returns with its second season. While the possibility of Markle entering Guy Ritchie’s criminal playground has generated plenty of attention in light of her prolonged stay in the UK, James’ response suggests viewers may want to hold off on expecting a royal addition to the cast.

After weeks of rumors surrounding Markle’s possible arrival, James has offered an answer not exactly entertaining the idea of the Duchess in the series.

Speaking to Deadline as per an interview published on September 3, Theo James was asked about Meghan Markle potentially joining The Gentlemen  for its third season. His answer was brief but telling.

“I think that’s unlikely,” he said. James then put the speculation into perspective, explaining that Season 3 has not even begun taking shape yet.

“I want to concentrate on Season 2 – the thing that’s coming out right now,” he told Deadline, adding that there is still “a lot of building to do” before the next installment takes form. Season 2 of The Gentlemen is now streaming on Netflix, having premiered on September 3, bringing James back as Eddie Horniman as his criminal operation grows increasingly complicated.

‘The Gentlemen’ Season 2: Theo James Returns As New Cast Updates and Teases Drop

While Meghan Markle’s possible presence in Season 3 remains one giant question mark, Season 2 has arrived with its own cast firmly in place.

Eddie Horniman’s criminal empire is getting bigger, messier and considerably more crowded as the Netflix series returns. Theo James returns as Eddie alongside Kaya Scodelario as Susie Glass, Daniel Ings as Freddy Horniman, Ray Winstone as Bobby Glass, Joely Richardson as Sabrina Horniman, Vinnie Jones as Geoffrey Seacombe and Giancarlo Esposito as Stanley Johnston.

Jasmine Blackborow, Michael Vu, Harry Goodwins, Ruby Sear and Pearce Quigley also return. New additions include Hugh Bonneville, Benjamin Clementine, Benedetta Porcaroli, Michele Morrone, Sergio Castellitto, Maya Jama, Amra Mallassi, Tyler Conti and Chris Eubank Jr.

The new season picks up with Eddie and Susie continuing to expand the criminal business they inherited through Bobby Glass, while the latter remains behind bars. Their ambitions now stretch beyond Britain and into Italy, bringing fresh alliances and new threats into the picture. With Guy Ritchie’s trademark mix of crime, chaos and dark humor still driving the story, Season 2 has plenty to occupy viewers before Season 3 becomes a real concern.

For now, that makes James’ comments particularly inconvenient for the Meghan Markle rumors. While the actor has not officially closed the door, and his answer leaves room for circumstances to change. But after the speculation surrounding Markle’s potential role became one of the biggest talking points around the series, James has made one thing fairly clear: there is no finished Season 3 waiting in the wings. 

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What do you think of Theo James dousing water on the royal rumors? Let us know in the comments.