Netflix has released a new trailer for the upcoming season of The Gentlemen, highlighting Maya Jama's upcoming role as Aisha. Meanwhile, reports suggest that a potential acting role for Meghan Markle in the series has been rescinded following significant British backlash.
Maya Jama's pivot to scripted drama as Aisha
Maya Jama, 32, is set to portray Aisha, a gangster's moll, in the upcoming season of The Gentlemen. According to the report, Jama viewed the role as a "safe entrance point" into the acting world. To prepare for the character, she reportedly worked closely with a drama coach to ensure her performance met her own high standards,telling Variety magazine that she never wants to do something and be "s*** at it ."
This move follows a growing trend of reality television personalities successfully transitioning into prestige scripted content. Jama's character, seen in the new trailer wearing a tweed shooting outfit and a long scarf, will navigate the criminal underworld alongside the show's lead, Eddie Horniman. The new season of the Netflix hit is scheduled to release on September 3.
Theo James and the fight for the Glass empire
The new trailer for The Gentlemen showcases Theo James as Eddie Horniman attempting to reclaim complete control of his sprawling estate. The narrative tension centers on a power struggle with Bobby Glass, played by Ray Winstone, who remains wary of the ambitions held by Eddie and Susie, played by Kaya Scodelario. The trailer features sweeping shots of the estate, with Eddie declaring, "I want it all back."
Additional cast members like Giancarlo Esposito and Hugh Bonneville are set to deepen the conflict. Esposito's character encourages Eddie to move away from Bobby Glass and forge his own path,while the plot touches on themes of criminal expansion and the decriminalization of marijuana. The series will follow Eddie and Susie as they decide whether to fall in line or make their own moves to expand their empire.
Tina Brown's report on the "intense" backlash against Meghan Markle
While Jama finds success, Meghan Markle's potential acting debut appears to have stalled. As reported by the source, royal author Tina Brown stated in her Fresh Hell Substack newsletter that the offer for Markle to join the cast was withdrawn . Brown noted that the backlash in Britain became "so intense it became untenable to go forward," suggesting this development does not bode well for the Duchess's acting comeback.
This development stands in contrast to Markle's previous public statements regarding her career. In 2022, Markle told Variety magazine that she had no intention of returning to acting, stating, "I'm done. I guess never say never but my intention is to absolutely not."
Will the withdrawal of the Netflix role halt a Sussex return to the UK?
The withdrawal of this role raises significant questions about the future plans of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Some sources suggested that a role in Guy Ritchie's Netflix series was a primary motivator for a potential return to Britain. With this professional tie severed, it remains to be seen whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will still proceed with a visit to the United Kingdom.
Several variables remain unverified following these reports. It is unclear if the Duchess will pursue other acting roles or if the perceived "problematic" nature of her celebrity status will continue to clash with the Royal Family's interests. Commentators have suggested that any high-profile acting role for Markle could create significant friction for both the Sussexes and the monarchy during inevitable media interviews.
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