Actress Emily Atack is reportedly hesitant to join the upcoming Inbetweeners reboot for Netflix due to a long-standing conflict with co-star James Buckley. The 36-year-old actress was notably absent from the franchise's first two feature films following a complicated history between the two performers.
The "it's her or me" ultimatum that sidelined Emily Atack
The tension between Atack and Buckley stems from a brief romance they shared during the original show's run between 2008 and 2010 . According to the Daily Mail, Buckley reportedly issued an "it's her or me" warning to avoid potential domestic issues with his wife, Clair Meek.. this decision resulted in Atack being snubbed from the first two Inbetweeners films, a move that has left her reportedly "furious" years later.
The actress is believed to be questioning the sudden interest from production, with a source close to her reportedly asking, "Why do you want me now when I wasn't good enough then?" This sense of being undervalued during the franchise's initial cinematic success remains a significant emotional barrier to her involvement in the new project.
Netflix's push for Charlotte "Big Jugs" Hinchcliffe
While the core quartet of Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, James Buckley, and Blake Harrison have all signed on for the third movie, Netflix executives are reportedly eager to bring Atack back. Streaming bosses want her to reprise her iconic role as Charlotte "Big Jugs" Hinchcliffe to complete the ensemble that fans have come to expect.
However, the interpersonal friction between Atack and Buckley presents a logistical and creative challenge for the studio. The report says that the potential for an awkward working environment could complicate the production's ability to secure Atack's commitment, despite the high demand for a full cast reunion.
A busy schedule including BBC's Reputation and a Spanish wedding
Emily Atack's current professional and personal commitments may also be playing a role in her hesitation. She is currently occupied with several high-profile projects, including a new BBC program titled Reputation and the game show Nobody's Fool. These existing contracts may limit her availability for a major film shoot.
On a personal note, Atack is preparing for a major life milestone: her wedding to Alistair Garner in Spain this coming September. Following a recent celebratory hen party in Cannes, the actress appears focused on her upcoming nuptials, which may further distance her from the demands of a film production schedule.
Will the 2027 release window depend on Emily Atack's return?
The future of the Inbetweeners reboot remains uncertain as the production timeline approaches. If filming begins in the near future, the resulting film could not air until as early as 2027. This extended timeline leaves a wide window for either reconciliation or permanent exclusion.
Several specific questions remain unanswered for the Netflix production team. It is unclear if the studio has a contingency plan should Atack refuse to return, or if the production can successfully manage the "awkwrad" dynamic between her and Buckley. Without a definitive answer from Atack, the completeness of the reboot remains in doubt.
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