The Gentlemen (2024 TV Series): A Complete Guide

Welcome to the chaotic, stylish, and surprisingly agricultural world of the gentlemen (2024 tv series). This streaming sensation expands on Guy Ritchie’s cinematic universe, trading the silver screen for an episodic format that delves deeper into the British aristocracy’s criminal underbelly. When Eddie Horniman, the Duke of Halstead, unexpectedly inherits his family’s sprawling estate, he discovers it comes with a major catch: it’s a key part of a massive cannabis empire.

The series follows Eddie’s reluctant journey from a straight-laced soldier to a player in a dangerous game, forcing him to navigate a world of eccentric gangsters, ruthless aristocrats, and complex criminal operations. This guide will explore everything you need to know about this wildly popular crime caper, from its plot and characters to its unique style and future prospects.

Key Takeaways

• A Standalone Story: While it shares its DNA with the 2019 film, the gentlemen (2024 tv series) tells a completely new story with fresh characters. You don’t need to see the movie to enjoy the show.
• Clash of Worlds: The core conflict revolves around the collision of old-money aristocracy and modern organized crime, creating a unique blend of high-society manners and brutal criminal dealings.
• Signature Guy Ritchie Style: Expect fast-paced dialogue, non-linear storytelling, stylish visuals, and a healthy dose of dark humor, all hallmarks of the director’s work.
• Stellar Ensemble Cast: The series is anchored by strong performances from Theo James as the reluctant Duke and Kaya Scodelario as the savvy business manager, Susie Glass.
• Globally Accessible: The show is available to stream exclusively on Netflix, making it easy for audiences in the United States and around the world to watch.

The Premise: From Soldier to Criminal Kingpin

The setup for the gentlemen (2024 tv series) is a classic fish-out-of-water story with a criminal twist. We are introduced to Captain Eddie Horniman, a commendable UN peacekeeper who is called back to his ancestral home when his father, the Duke of Halstead, is on his deathbed. As the second son, Eddie has never expected to inherit anything of significance. The title and estate are destined for his older, less reliable brother, Freddy. However, in a surprising turn of events, the Duke’s will names Eddie as the new heir to everything—the title, the 15,000-acre estate, and the immense responsibilities that come with it.

This inheritance is far more complicated than it appears. Eddie soon discovers that his father had a secret business arrangement: a massive, highly profitable cannabis-growing operation is hidden beneath the estate grounds. This enterprise is run by a sophisticated crime syndicate led by the imprisoned but ever-powerful Bobby Glass. Eddie’s newfound Dukedom comes with a non-negotiable partnership in this illegal venture. He wants out, but extricating his family from this criminal web proves to be a dangerous and complex task, especially with his reckless brother Freddy accumulating massive debts with even more dangerous people. Eddie must learn to master this new world or risk losing everything.

Connection to Guy Ritchie’s Film Universe

Many fans wonder how the gentlemen (2024 tv series) connects to the original 2019 film of the same name. The answer is simple: it exists in the same world but is not a direct sequel or prequel. Think of it as an expansion of the universe. The series takes the core concept of the film—aristocrats renting out their land to cannabis growers—and uses it as a launchpad for a brand-new narrative with a completely different set of characters. You won’t see Matthew McConaughey’s Mickey Pearson or Hugh Grant’s Fletcher making an appearance.

Instead, the show uses the film’s premise to explore the criminal ecosystem more broadly. It establishes that Mickey Pearson’s business model was not unique; it was part of a larger, decentralized network of “tweed-clad gangsters.” By focusing on the Horniman estate and the Glass syndicate, the series carves out its own distinct corner of this universe. This approach allows newcomers to jump right in without any prior knowledge, while fans of the film can appreciate the thematic and stylistic continuity. The show retains the film’s signature blend of high-stakes crime, sharp dialogue, and dark comedy, all filtered through Guy Ritchie’s unique directorial lens, ensuring it feels spiritually connected even with a fresh cast.

Main Characters and Cast of the Series

A strong ensemble cast is crucial for a story with so many moving parts, and the gentlemen (2024 tv series) delivers. The characters are vibrant, complex, and brought to life by a talented group of actors. At the center is Eddie Horniman, who must evolve from an honorable soldier into a cunning strategist. His journey is complicated by the people around him, each with their own agendas.

Here are some of the key players you’ll meet:

• Eddie Horniman (Theo James): The protagonist and newly minted Duke of Halstead. Disciplined and morally grounded, Eddie is thrown into a world he despises and must use his military training to navigate its dangers.
• Susie Glass (Kaya Scodelario): The de facto manager of the cannabis empire while her father is in prison. She is sharp, stylish, and pragmatic, serving as Eddie’s guide, partner, and occasional antagonist.
• Freddy Horniman (Daniel Ings): Eddie’s older brother. His impulsive, chaotic, and debt-ridden nature is the catalyst for many of the series’ conflicts. He is a constant liability that Eddie must manage.
• Bobby Glass (Ray Winstone): The formidable kingpin of the crime syndicate, operating his empire from a surprisingly comfortable open prison. He is the puppet master pulling the strings from behind the scenes.
• Geoff Seacombe (Vinnie Jones): The loyal groundskeeper of Halstead Manor. He knows more about the estate’s secrets than anyone and serves as a quiet, steadfast source of support for Eddie.

Themes and Tone: Crime, Humor, and Class

At its heart, the gentlemen (2024 tv series) is a brilliant exploration of the clash between the British class system and the criminal underworld. The show masterfully blends genres, shifting from intense crime thriller to laugh-out-loud dark comedy, often within the same scene. One of its central themes is the examination of aristocracy.

The Hornimans represent “old money”—a world of tradition, titles, and inherited land. However, the show suggests that their supposed civility is just a veneer. As Eddie gets deeper into the criminal world, he realizes that the ruthlessness required to survive in high society is not so different from the brutality of organized crime. The gangsters may be more direct, but the aristocrats are just as cunning.

Humor is another key element. The comedy is distinctly British—dry, witty, and often very dark. Much of the humor comes from the absurdity of the situations, such as a formal aristocratic pheasant shoot being interrupted by a violent confrontation, or a gangster explaining the logistics of his operation with the same seriousness as a corporate CEO.

The dialogue is fast, clever, and full of slang that adds to the show’s authentic feel. This tonal blend makes the series incredibly engaging. It can make you tense up during a high-stakes standoff and then laugh at a ridiculous character quirk moments later. It’s a delicate balancing act that the series pulls off with style.

Production Style: Direction, Cinematography, and Soundtrack

The production of the gentlemen (2024 tv series) is a masterclass in style. Guy Ritchie, who co-wrote, created, and directed the first two episodes, sets the visual and narrative tone for the entire season. His signature directorial flourishes are everywhere: quick cuts, non-linear timelines that jump back and forth to reveal information, and stylish montages set to energetic music. This dynamic editing keeps the pace brisk and the audience engaged, mirroring the chaotic world the characters inhabit. The direction ensures that even scenes heavy with dialogue feel kinetic and visually interesting.

Cinematography plays a huge role in establishing the show’s world. There is a stark visual contrast between the two worlds Eddie straddles. The Halstead Manor and its grounds are shot with sweeping, elegant camera movements, emphasizing the grandeur and history of the aristocracy. These scenes are often bathed in natural light, showcasing the beauty of the English countryside. In contrast, the criminal underworld is depicted with grittier, more claustrophobic visuals.

The color palette often becomes darker and more saturated, reflecting the moral decay and danger. This visual language reinforces the show’s central themes. The soundtrack is another standout element, featuring an eclectic mix of classical pieces, classic rock, and modern hip-hop. This juxtaposition of musical styles mirrors the clash of cultures on screen, making the soundtrack an essential part of the show’s identity.

Episode Structure and Pacing

The eight-episode structure of the gentlemen (2024 tv series) allows for a much deeper dive into the characters and plot than a two-hour film. The pacing is deliberate yet consistently engaging. Each episode generally focuses on a specific “problem” or “job” that Eddie and Susie must solve, often created by Freddy’s incompetence or the interference of a rival gangster. This episodic, problem-of-the-week format makes the series highly binge-able while still contributing to the larger, season-long narrative arc of Eddie’s transformation. For example, one episode might involve dealing with a blackmailing journalist, while the next focuses on stealing back a stolen shipment.

This structure allows the series to introduce a colorful cast of supporting characters, from verbose travelers and devout drug dealers to psychopathic aristocrats. Each new challenge forces Eddie to compromise his morals a little more and become more adept at playing the game. The pacing accelerates as the season progresses.

The initial episodes take their time establishing the world and the key players. By the midpoint, the stakes are significantly raised, and the final few episodes are a frantic rush of betrayals, power plays, and violent showdowns. This build-up is incredibly effective, leading to a satisfying and explosive conclusion that also leaves the door open for future stories. The show expertly balances its standalone episodic plots with the overarching story of Eddie’s descent into the criminal world.

How to Watch ‘The Gentlemen’ in the US

For audiences in the United States, watching the gentlemen (2024 tv series) is simple and straightforward. The show is a Netflix Original, which means it is available exclusively on the Netflix streaming platform. If you have a Netflix subscription, you can access all eight episodes of the first season right now. There is no need to worry about channel surfing or checking local listings; the entire season was released at once, making it perfect for a weekend binge-watch.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Platform: Netflix
• Rating: The series is rated TV-MA in the United States.
• Parental Guidance: This TV-MA rating is for violence, language, and smoking. The show features frequent and strong profanity, scenes of brutal violence, and depictions of criminal activity. It is intended for mature audiences and is not suitable for children or young teenagers.

Because it is a global Netflix release, the show is available with various subtitle and audio options, making it accessible to a wide international audience. To watch, simply open the Netflix app or website, search for “The Gentlemen,” and press play.

Reception and Audience Response

Since its release, the gentlemen (2024 tv series) has been met with a largely positive reception from both critics and audiences. The show quickly shot to the top of Netflix’s viewing charts in numerous countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, proving to be a major streaming hit. Critics have praised the series for successfully translating Guy Ritchie’s signature style to an episodic format.

Many reviews highlight the charismatic performances of Theo James and Kaya Scodelario, whose on-screen chemistry is a major driving force of the narrative. The sharp writing, dark humor, and stylish production have also been frequently cited as strengths. You might even find it discussed on forums or news sites like https://forbesplanet.co.uk/.

Audience response has been equally enthusiastic. Social media platforms were flooded with positive comments, with viewers celebrating the show’s entertaining plot, memorable characters, and binge-worthy nature. Many have called it a return to form for Guy Ritchie, harkening back to his earlier beloved crime films like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch. The blend of action, comedy, and drama has resonated with a broad audience looking for smart, stylish entertainment.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• • Engaging, fast-paced plot with plenty of twists.
  • Excellent performances from the entire ensemble cast.
  • Successfully expands the universe of the original film.
  • Signature Guy Ritchie style is perfectly suited for television.
• Cons:
• • The TV-MA rating means it’s not for everyone due to violence and language.
  • Some plot points rely on convenient coincidences.

Comparisons with Other Crime-Comedy Shows

The gentlemen (2024 tv series) fits into the popular but hard-to-perfect genre of crime-comedy. Its unique blend of aristocratic satire and gritty gangster action sets it apart, but it shares some DNA with other notable shows. One of the most common comparisons is to Peaky Blinders. Both are British crime dramas centered on a family’s illegal enterprise and a charismatic leader. However,

The Gentlemen is far more comedic and less self-serious than the brooding, atmospheric Peaky Blinders. While the Shelbys are a working-class family climbing their way up, the Hornimans are aristocrats falling their way down into the criminal world, creating a different dynamic.

Another apt comparison is the American series Barry. Like Eddie Horniman, the title character in Barry is a man trying to escape a violent life but is continually pulled back in. Both shows expertly balance dark humor with moments of shocking violence and explore the psychological toll of living a double life. However, Barry is more of a character study focused on one man’s psyche, whereas The Gentlemen is a broader ensemble piece about a whole ecosystem of crime. Finally, its quick wit and morally ambiguous characters might remind viewers of shows like Ozark or Breaking Bad, though it maintains a much lighter and more humorous tone throughout.

Future Outlook: A Potential Season 2?

After a thrilling and conclusive-yet-open-ended finale, the biggest question on every fan’s mind is: will there be a Season 2 of the gentlemen (2024 tv series)? The ending of the first season certainly leaves the door wide open. Without giving away major spoilers, Eddie’s journey takes a significant turn, moving him from a reluctant participant to a willing and powerful player in the criminal world. The final scenes set up a new status quo that is ripe for exploration, with new challenges and enemies on the horizon.

The show’s creators and cast members have expressed their enthusiasm for returning. Theo James has mentioned in interviews that there’s been talk of a second season and that the characters have more stories to tell. The massive commercial success of the first season makes a renewal highly likely from Netflix’s perspective. Given the positive reception and strong viewership numbers, it would be surprising if the platform didn’t greenlight another chapter. If a second season happens, we can expect it to delve deeper into Eddie’s new role, his evolving partnership with Susie Glass, and the new threats that will inevitably arise as their empire grows. Fans should keep an eye out for an official announcement from Netflix.

Conclusion

The gentlemen (2024 tv series) is a triumphant expansion of Guy Ritchie’s criminal world, offering a witty, violent, and incredibly entertaining ride. By placing an aristocrat at the center of a cannabis empire, the series creates a fresh and compelling narrative that cleverly explores themes of class, morality, and family. With its stellar cast, sharp writing, and signature stylistic flair, the show stands as one of the year’s most enjoyable streaming experiences.

It successfully balances episodic problem-solving with a season-long character arc, making it a perfect binge-watch. Whether you are a long-time fan of Guy Ritchie’s work or a newcomer looking for a smart and stylish crime caper, this series delivers on all fronts. As Eddie Horniman has learned, once you’re in, there’s no getting out—and viewers will likely feel the same way after finishing the first season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to watch the 2019 movie The Gentlemen before the TV series?
No, you do not. The gentlemen (2024 tv series) is a standalone story with new characters. It takes place in the same universe, but you can enjoy it fully without any prior knowledge of the film.

2. Who is the director of the TV series?
Guy Ritchie, who directed the original film, is the creator, co-writer, and executive producer of the series. He also directed the first two episodes, establishing the show’s signature tone and style.

3. Where was The Gentlemen TV series filmed?
The series was filmed at various locations across the United Kingdom. The primary filming location for the Halstead Manor was Badminton House in Gloucestershire, a real-life ducal estate. Other scenes were shot in and around London.

4. How many episodes are in the first season?
The first season of the gentlemen (2024 tv series) consists of eight episodes, all of which were released simultaneously on Netflix.

5. Is the show suitable for all ages?
No, it is not. The series is rated TV-MA in the United States for strong violence, pervasive language, and smoking. It is intended for mature audiences only.

6. Will there be a Season 2 of The Gentlemen?
While Netflix has not officially confirmed a second season as of late 2025, the show’s creators, cast, and massive popularity all point toward a likely renewal. The story ends in a way that perfectly sets up another season.

7. Is the TV series based on a true story?
No, the series is entirely fictional. It is an original story created by Guy Ritchie and his writing team, though it draws inspiration from real-life overlaps between the British aristocracy and criminal enterprises.

8. Who sings the main songs in the soundtrack?
The soundtrack is very eclectic and features a wide range of artists and genres, from classical music to grime and rock. There isn’t one main artist; instead, the music is curated to fit the mood of each specific scene.