Tom Hardy, like a phoenix, could very well return to MobLand

For the past week, several rumors have been circulating that the actor would not return for a potential third season. Some media outlets mentioned tensions with two producers, as well as repeated delays on set (see our news article Tom Hardy and MobLand: things are heating up). Tom says thumbs down. According to Variety's sources, discussions are now underway to find a solution allowing Hardy to reprise his role as Harry Da Souza. "Tom hasn't been fired, the door isn't closed for season 3, and things are being worked out creatively," one source claims. Another adds: "I'm sure Guy is probably pushing David Glasser to find a solution. Guy enjoys working with Tom." According to Variety, the tensions mentioned in recent days were very real, particularly between Hardy, showrunner Jez Butterworth, and producer David Glasser. The three men are reportedly trying to resolve their creative differences. The third season is scheduled to begin production this fall, with Pierce Brosnan and Helen Mirren also returning. Guy Ritchie, the series' executive producer, directed several episodes of the first two seasons. According to Variety's sources, the problem stems in part from Jez Butterworth's late delivery of scripts, sometimes barely a week before filming. This method reportedly upset Tom Hardy, who is known for his thorough preparation and rehearsal process. Butterworth was also not on set to address writing issues as they arose, which complicated matters when Hardy requested occasional changes. One source suggests that Butterworth may be overworked. The screenwriter is also working on The Agency for Paramount+ as well as the upcoming Beatles biopics to be directed by Sam Mendes. When Guy Ritchie directed some episodes himself, he had the authority to adjust a script on the fly. The problem was therefore less noticeable. But when other directors took over, the situation reportedly became much more complicated. Hardy is getting on top of things. This affair also confirms an important cultural difference. On an Anglo-Saxon series, the work of the screenwriter and showrunner remains central to the process, even when a star of Tom Hardy's caliber wants to influence the script. A framework exists, discussions take place, adjustments are negotiated. And that's quite healthy, provided the system doesn't break down. Given what happened on MobLand, a simple adjustment to the methodology might be enough to prevent the situation from recurring. Fans can breathe a sigh of relief: Tom Hardy still seems to be expected to return for season 3. In France, in many productions, one might wonder if the screenwriter wouldn't have been the first to be sacrificed.