Comic was hoping to be a film star by now..

Rhys James has revealed that he once auditioned for the role of Johnny English Jr.

Two years ago,  it was reported that a new instalment of the Rowan Atkinson spoof spy franchise was in development, due to be shot in Malta and London.

And speaking at the recording of this week’s edition of the revived Mock The Week, the comic revealed he had    gone up for the part – to the huge amusement of fellow panellists.

‘I  genuinely, two years ago, auditioned for Johnny English Jr. I was 33 years old, playing Johnny English’s son – doesn’t have a name of his own,  Johnny English Jr. 

‘That’s what I was hoping. Mock The Week ended and I was like "that’s all right, I’m a film star now". Anyway, [I’m] back here…’

There has been no news about the movie project, which is still officially listed as being in development.

Also on this week’s Mock The Week are Angela Barnes, Sean McLoughlin, Alasdair Beckett-King, Mark Simmons and Ria Lina. It airs on TLC at 9pm on Sunday.

Here is James's confession:

Published: 20 Feb 2026