Filming for the highly anticipated second series of the gritty gangster drama MobLand is in full swing across London, but off-screen tensions are reportedly threatening to overshadow the production. The drama, which streams on Paramount+, has been the subject of intense speculation following claims of a serious rift between two of its leading stars.
A Notting Hill Lunch Amidst the Rumours
In a contrasting scene to the alleged backstage friction, lead actor Tom Hardy, 48, and director Guy Ritchie, 57, were seen in high spirits this week. The pair took a break from filming to enjoy a bottle of wine at the exclusive Dorian Restaurant in Notting Hill. The Michelin-starred venue, a favourite of celebrities including the Beckhams, provided the backdrop for their relaxed outdoor lunch.
Hardy, who plays fixer Harry Da Souza, cut a stylish figure in a leather jacket, while Ritchie looked characteristically smart in a white polo top and braces. Their convivial meeting comes, however, against a backdrop of growing reports concerning Hardy's conduct on set, particularly his relationship with legendary actress Dame Helen Mirren.
'Extremely Strained' Relations with a Co-Star
According to multiple sources speaking to The Mail on Sunday, relations between Dame Helen Mirren and Tom Hardy have become "extremely strained" during the shoot for the new series. Dame Helen, 80, who portrays formidable matriarch Maeve Harrigan, is said to be "getting increasingly frustrated" with her younger co-star's attitude.
Insiders claim the Oscar-winning actress, renowned for her consummate professionalism, has been annoyed by Hardy's perceived lateness to set and his general tone. One source stated, "She expects better. She holds people to a high standard. She’s 80. She’s been there and seen it all."
The situation has reportedly become so tense that crew members have noticed Dame Helen appears less happy when filming scenes directly with Hardy. Another source suggested Hardy "swaggers around like he’s the king" and can be "very, very arrogant," creating an unwelcome "undertone" on an otherwise beloved production.
What's Next for MobLand?
Despite the behind-the-scenes drama, excitement remains high for the continuation of the hit series. The storyline for season two is being kept tightly under wraps, but it is expected to pick up directly after the bloody cliffhanger that concluded the first season.
That finale saw Hardy's character, Harry, stabbed by his own wife, Jan, played by Joanne Froggatt, after the Harrigan family defeated their rivals, the Stevensons. The ensemble cast also includes Pierce Brosnan as Conrad Harrigan and Paddy Considine as Kevin Harrigan.
Filming has been spotted at various iconic UK locations, including the Cotswolds and Tower Bridge in London. The first season, which launched in April, was a success for Paramount+, earning a 78% score on Rotten Tomatoes and praise from viewers for its gripping tale of warring London crime families.
Representatives for Tom Hardy did not respond to requests for comment on the allegations concerning his on-set behaviour. As production continues, all eyes will be on whether the reported personal battles impact the final cut of this star-studded gangland saga.
