Helen Mirren backs Tom Hardy and hopes for his return to 'MobLand' season 3

Dame Helen Mirren has expressed firm support for her MobLand co-star Tom Hardy, saying she would work with him again “in a f****** heartbeat” as speculation continues over his future on the series.

The 80-year-old Oscar-winning actress praised Hardy during an appearance at the Taormina Film Festival in Italy, describing him as an “amazing” and “remarkable” performer and urging that creative differences should not overshadow the final result on screen.

“Absolutely. In a f****** heartbeat,” Mirren said when asked by Variety whether she would want to collaborate with Hardy again.

“I love Tom. I think he’s the most amazing actor. I’ve always loved him on screen. Different actors have different processes. I’ve learned over the years that some people get things fast and other people take time,” she added.

Mirren emphasised that she values performance above process, saying she remains focused on the quality of the final product rather than how actors arrive at their performances.

“As long as what’s on the screen is fantastic, I’m totally chilled with whatever, however anyone gets there,” she said. 

“Tom is a very special person. He’s got the kindest heart… my support of him is genuine and heartfelt.”

The actress also said she hopes Hardy will return for a potential third season of MobLand, where he stars alongside herself and Pierce Brosnan.

She added that she believes the show benefits from the strength of its creative team, including writer Jez Butterworth, and expressed optimism about its future.

“When you have these very powerful artistic people working together, the creative process is very challenging and people can get their knickers in a twist, as we say,” she said. “But yes, we will go forward, absolutely, and it’ll be even better.”

Her comments come amid reports suggesting behind-the-scenes tensions during production of the series’ second season.

Earlier claims published in The Puck newsletter alleged that producers had considered not continuing with Hardy for a potential third season following reported clashes with producers, including Jez Butterworth and David Glasser. 

The reports also cited alleged disagreements over scripting, punctuality, and creative input.

However, subsequent reports suggested the situation may not be final. According to Variety, sources indicated that Hardy was not dismissed from the series and that discussions were ongoing regarding his involvement in future episodes.

One source quoted by the outlet said “the door is not closed” for Season 3 and that matters were being worked through creatively.

MobLand has not yet confirmed casting decisions for its potential third season.