Sally Hawkins Explains Her Departure from Paddington 3: A Heartfelt Decision
Sally Hawkins, beloved for her role as Mary Brown in the first two films of the Paddington franchise, has recently shed light on why she did not reprise her role in Paddington in Peru. Instead, the character of Mary Brown is now portrayed by Emily Mortimer.
In an exclusive interview with The Times, Hawkins candidly discussed her choice to step away from the franchise, attributing her decision primarily to the departure of director Paul King. She expressed her deep affection for King and his unique filmmaking style, stating, “Because I love Paul so much, and love the way he works, it would’ve broken my heart” to continue without him.
Reflecting on her departure, Hawkins admitted, “I felt so awful” about not returning. However, she was pleased to see her fellow cast member, Hugh Bonneville, receiving an “upgrade” with Mortimer stepping into the role.
Previously, Paddington 3 executive producer Rosie Alison revealed that the team had attempted to persuade Hawkins to reconsider her decision. Despite their efforts, Hawkins felt that she had already given everything she could to the character of Mary Brown. In a statement at the time, she praised Mortimer, saying, “For me, it has felt like the right time to hand the reins over to another. One can’t get much better than the truly wonderful Emily Mortimer; she is extraordinarily special.” Hawkins expressed confidence that Mortimer would embody the essence of Mary Brown while making the role her own.
Hawkins also reminisced about her time working on the first two Paddington films, describing them as “the best and most creative times” of her career, bringing her immense joy and cherished memories. She concluded her statement with heartfelt appreciation for the franchise, saying, “I will always be in love with Paddington’s world.”
Paddington in Peru premiered in theaters in the United Kingdom on November 8, 2024, and in the United States on February 14, 2025. The film has received critical acclaim, holding a 93% fresh rating and a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, showcasing the enduring charm of the beloved bear.
For fans of the franchise, Hawkins’ heartfelt reflections underscore the deep connection that actors often form with their roles and the projects they work on, even as new talent steps in to carry on the legacy.
