When Paddington 3 was first announced in 2020, fans were met with a major change: Paul King, who directed the beloved first two films, would not be returning to direct the third installment. Instead, Dougal Wilson would be taking the helm for this new chapter.
But that’s not the only shift in Paddington 3. When the cast list was confirmed in June 2023, fans were surprised to learn that Sally Hawkins, who portrayed the warm-hearted Mrs. Brown in the previous films, would not be reprising her role.
Instead, the character would be recast with a new actress stepping in for Paddington in Peru.
So, why isn’t Hawkins returning, and who will take over as Mrs. Brown in this latest film? Here’s everything you need to know, including what both Hawkins and her successor have shared about the change.
Hawkins recently explained to fans that her decision to leave the franchise felt natural, expressing that it was “the right time” for her departure.
In a June interview, she shared, “For me, it’s felt like the right time to hand the reins over to someone else, and one can’t get much better than the truly wonderful Emily Mortimer; she is extraordinarily special.
I am, and will always be, in love with Paddington’s world. I already greatly miss my on and off-screen family.
The experience of making the first two films has truly been some of the best and most creative times I’ve had in film. They both brought me so much joy, and I will forever hold them very close to my heart.”
Hugh Bonneville, who plays Mr. Brown, assured fans that Hawkins’ exit didn’t stem from any behind-the-scenes conflict.
He explained, “We’re not pretending it’s anything other than a straightforward swap. There hasn’t been a hideous divorce or anything. Emily just seemed like a perfect fit.”
Director Wilson added, “We were lucky to get Emily. She’s radiant, warm, and so clever; she’s also a writer, which makes her fantastic at ad-libbing.
It’s a tough role because she’s the emotional core of the Browns and the one most connected with Paddington.”
Paddington in Peru will feature other new faces, including Olivia Colman as a singing nun and Antonio Banderas as an adventurous ship captain.
Original cast members returning alongside Bonneville include Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington, Julie Walters as Mrs. Bird, and Jim Broadbent as Mr. Gruber, the antiques shop owner.
Emily Mortimer, now taking on the role of Mrs. Brown, recently opened up about her experience stepping into the character.
On The Graham Norton Show (November 1), she admitted to feeling a bit nervous about following in Hawkins’ footsteps.
“It was really nice being married to Hugh [Bonneville, her on-screen husband], so that part was easy, but stepping into this incredible role was nerve-wracking,” she shared.
“I was worried about feeling like an imposter because I couldn’t hope to emulate the amazing performance that Sally gave. All I could do was bring my own version and hope it was at least halfway as good.
It sounds soppy to say it, but there’s something about the spirit of Paddington that makes everything okay. It’s the sweetest, kindest, loveliest set with the most thoughtful and caring vibe.” Paddington in Peru is set to release on Friday, November 8, 2024.
