Why isn’t Sally Hawkins in Paddington 3?

Fans of the Paddington movies have come to love the Brown family as much as the talking bear at the heart of the story, but change is afoot in the newest film because Sally Hawkins is no longer playing the family matriarch, Mary Brown.

Yes, after two films in the role Hawkins has departed the production, and the part is now being played by Emily Mortimer in Paddington in Peru. Both actors have spoken on the subject and shared insight into why the decision was made for the third film.

Here is everything that we know so far.

Why did Sally Hawkins leave Paddington?

Hawkins felt she had done all she could with the role of Mrs Brown, and so decided to not return to the film franchise for a third outing.

Hawkins told Variety in June: "For me it has felt the right time to hand the reins over to another, and one can't get much better than the truly wonderful Emily Mortimer, she is extraordinarily special. She will embody the essence of Mary Brown and yet make it utterly her own. However, I am, and will always be in love with Paddington's world.

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"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 have had in the world of film. They both gave me so much joy. I will forever hold them so very close to my heart indeed."

Hawkins has continued to work with Paul King, who directed the first two Paddington films but chose not to return for the third film in favour of filming Wonka.

What does Emily Mortimer think about taking over the role of Mrs Brown in Paddington?

Mortimer was recommended to take the role of Mrs Brown by Hugh Bonneville, who portrays Mr Brown in the films. His recommendation was something the actor found "so flattering".

Speaking to The Telegraph about joining the franchise, Mortimer said: "It was a nerve-racking proposition in lots of ways, because it was stepping into this world and character and everything. It felt like a big responsibility. But on the other hand, to say no – not just to Hugh, but to Paddington – would be so churlish. It's thrilling. An honour.

"You can't say no to Paddington. If he turned malevolent, he could really do some damage. He's a leader of men. You can't turn him down."

While she didn't directly talk to Ben Whishaw, the voice of Paddington, during production, the actor had nothing but praise when asked about his Mary Poppins Returns co-star: "I adore Emily. I think it's hard to replace Sally Hawkins, who is extraordinary, and that Emily had the courage to do that and then to make the role so much her own is testament to who she is as a person and an actor.

"She's such an amazing comedian and can find warmth and wit in the tiniest moment or phrase or look. I suppose all you can do as actors is try to bring yourself to it sincerely and truthfully and Emily just does that."

Paddington in Peru premieres on Friday, 8 November.