Netflix insiders reject claims Meghan was 'used' to promote The Gentlemen, insisting the show doesn't need 'stunt casting'

Friends of the Duchess of Sussex claimed Netflix leaked her possible role because it knew season two of Guy Ritchie's crime drama was not 'as good as the first season'. They said the streamer had 'already commissioned a third' series and wanted a publicity boost. Season two, starring Theo James and Kaya Scodelario, premiered last month. One production insider retorted: 'This is not a show in need of stunt casting.'

Talks over a season three role were reported in August, then abandoned within a day.

Tina Brown wrote that the UK backlash 'was so intense, it became untenable to go forward'.

The casting talks surfaced two days after Harry and Meghan revealed an indefinite return to Britain.