Giancarlo Esposito Teases Mr. Johnston's Dark "End Game" in 'The Gentlemen' Season 2!

Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for the finale of Season 2 of The Gentlemen.

Guy Ritchie's gangster series, The Gentlemen, has officially launched its second season on Netflix, taking significant inspiration from his 2019 film. Season 2 dramatically transforms the narrative established in Season 1, pushing the show into uncharted, darker territory. The new season centers on Eddie Horniman (Theo James) as his criminal empire rapidly expands. Under the initial tutelage of Bobby Glass (Ray Winstone), Eddie successfully extended the weed business into Italy, working closely with Susie (Kaya Scodelario). However, a pivotal turn occurs when Eddie decides to deviate from Bobby's meticulously laid plans, leading to dire consequences. Bobby, aiming to impart a harsh lesson, leaves Eddie near death in a shallow grave. The emotional toll is further exacerbated when, after his recovery, Eddie marries Bella (Benedetta Porcaroli), who tragically perishes in a plane explosion that was intended for him. As the season progresses, Bobby's increasingly unusual behavior, particularly his belief in mythological forces, forces both Susie and Eddie to question his sanity. Concurrently, Eddie seeks counsel from the enigmatic Stanley Johnston (Giancarlo Esposito), who appears convinced that Eddie is destined for a role far greater than merely the criminal underworld. Amidst this escalating chaos, the only consistent positive influence in Eddie's life seems to be Geoff (Vinnie Jones), his loyal gamekeeper and the secret father of his half-sister, Charly (Jasmine Blackborow). Collider recently conducted interviews with Winstone, Esposito, and Jones, delving into their characters' Season 2 storylines and speculating on their future trajectories.

Ray Winstone discussed Bobby Glass's evolving state in Season 2, particularly the concern that Bobby might be losing his grip on reality. Bobby frequently mentions the "Bannick," a mythical being he claims to see in the sauna, a vision also shared by viewers. This, coupled with the "little scratches" on Eddie's back, fuels Bobby's distrust. When questioned about Bobby's trust in Eddie being restored after all the tumultuous events, Winstone admitted, "I'm still thinking about it. I'm not sure. I'm treading lightly here because, with me, I'm not quite sure where I'm going, whether he's losing his mind or not, or whether he's playing a game." He preferred to leave it open-ended. Addressing the anticipated discovery of his daughter Susie's involvement in dealing cocaine, Winstone forewarned that it "can end rather badly," predicting "fireworks." He reflected on Bobby's role in shaping Susie, stating, "He's created his own Frankenstein there. He's created a daughter that is very much like him — it’s him in a dress, you know? But she's taking it on, and she's the new breed." Winstone acknowledged the changing world, comparing Susie's actions to how modern kids deal with social media, and questioned how much love he has for his daughter versus the strict rules of their gangster life. He hinted at "tough love" for Susie if her actions endanger the entire business and empire.

Giancarlo Esposito offered profound insights into Stanley Johnston's cryptic and mythic persona in Season 2. Esposito described Johnston as "so well-studied and well-versed, well-educated in terms of history and past and present," believing his role is to "remind Eddie of his own particular history and to push him deeper into the knowledge of who he really is." Johnston sees an admirable quality in Eddie that he wishes to cultivate, indicating that "Stanley Johnston is in for the long game." Esposito asserted that Johnston has a clear "end game" in mind for Eddie, guided by his desires. When probed about Johnston potentially making a move against Bobby, Esposito deemed it a "very deep possibility." He suggested that Johnston seeks to restore a deeper, more spiritually connected "civilization" within Eddie, distinct from the "gangster" ethos. However, he also posited that Bobby and Stanley might work together, as "they seem to understand each other in a way where others wouldn't." Esposito highlighted a generational clash of values, with his character representing an "old-school" perspective with "old-world values," contrasting with the new generation (like Bobby's child and Eddie) who "don't look at consequences the way we do." He mused on the struggle to grow the empire while avoiding scrutiny from powerful figures (politics, police) who now primarily seek financial gain, questioning if "there's enough room for everybody," to which he concluded, "There never is."

Vinnie Jones elaborated on Geoff's unwavering loyalty to Eddie, positioning him as perhaps the closest thing Eddie has to a genuine father figure. Jones revealed Geoff's personal motivation, stating, "I used to be 40,000 acres... and I want it back." This indicates Geoff's agreement with Eddie's ambition to reclaim their former status. However, Jones also acknowledged Geoff's alarm at Eddie's increasingly dark methods, explaining, "I think he's concerned that he's going to get out of hand, but Jeff will still be there, whatever happens." This underscores Geoff's steadfast commitment: even if he doesn't agree with Eddie's decisions, he will "go along with him," whether it's "taking him to hospital, or taking him home or getting him home." Jones succinctly summarized Geoff's role as exhibiting ultimate loyalty, describing him as "the last man standing kind of thing."

The second season of The Gentlemen weaves a complex tapestry of ambition, betrayal, and shifting allegiances within a burgeoning criminal underworld. With Eddie's transformation, Bobby's enigmatic behavior, Stanley's calculated guidance, and Geoff's steadfast support, the series explores the intricate dynamics of power, family, and the enduring consequences of a life immersed in crime. The Gentlemen Season 2 is now available to stream on Netflix.