The chances of Meghan Markle returning to acting by stepping into a role allegedly crafted for Princess Diana are slim, according to a prominent royal insider.
There has been recent speculation suggesting Markle may make a reentry into the world of acting, with whispers that she may headline a sequel to Kevin Costner's 1992 box-office hit, "The Bodyguard."
However, Kinsey Schofield, a royal commentator and correspondent, dismisses these rumors as pure fabrication. In an episode of TalkTV's "Kinsey Schofield's L.A. Diaries," she offered her insights into why the rumors likely hold no validity.
She said, "It seems a bit too coincidental that Meghan Markle is rumored to feature in 'The Bodyguard' sequel, a project supposedly designed for Princess Diana. I regard this as a misleading narrative."
Schofield pointed out that Princess Diana and Costner were said to be in the process of outlining a sequel to "The Bodyguard" prior to the princess' untimely demise in 1997.
Schofield highlighted that Sarah Ferguson, Diana's former sister-in-law, had introduced the princess to the actor. She shared Diana's affinity for the film and her connection with Whitney Houston's character, portrayed as "an immensely popular, yet profoundly lonely star yearning for genuine affection."
"Diana was in dialogue with Costner regarding the script when she passed away. According to her ex-butler, Paul Burrell, Diana's involvement in the film was uncertain. He wasn't sure if she would have ever starred in the movie, but she undeniably enjoyed the attention she received from Costner," said Schofield.
Schofield went on to reveal that "Costner received a revised script, accommodating Diana's suggested alterations, just three days before her death. He read the script post her demise and it deeply moved him, as it resonated with her true self."
Schofield reiterated her doubts about the assertion of Markle reprising the role initially "designed" for Princess Diana, expressing, "It just doesn't ring true to me."
The host of the royal podcast "To Di For Daily" remarked that Markle could choose to return to acting, but believed it was unlikely. "She's got influential connections, like Tyler Perry, in the industry," she added, "however, I feel she might prefer to tread the path of an influencer."
Costner confirmed in a 2019 interview with People that Princess Diana was poised to be his co-star in a follow-up to "The Bodyguard", crediting Ferguson for facilitating their interaction. Costner disclosed that the sequel's plot was to revolve around his "Bodyguard" character Frank Farmer protecting Diana from paparazzi and stalkers, with a romantic twist.
Markle retired from acting before her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry, appearing last on the Season 7 finale of "Suits." Since then, she has signed with Hollywood talent agency WME post her and Prince Harry's departure from royal duties. The agency plans to cultivate her business prospects across various sectors, including film and TV production and brand partnerships. However, Variety has reported that a return to acting for Markle seems unlikely.