Grandson of Prince Charles of Luxembourg Louis Cunningham to star as Louis XVI in Marie Antoinette

Christened Louis — and with Prince Charles as one of his grandfathers — he was always destined for grandeur.

No, not the third and youngest of Kate and Wills’s offspring but Louis Cunningham, 24, grandson of the late Prince Charles of Luxembourg.

After making his Bridgerton debut as Lord Corning, he is now to star in the eight-part BBC drama Marie Antoinette. His role? Louis XVI, of course.

And Daily Mail’s Richard Eden has revealed that Oxford graduate Louis, 24, has another prince lurking in his background — ‘Prince of Darkness’ Peter Mandelson.

Years ago, when a neighbour of Louis’s parents, the Labour peer used to babysit for the family.

Created and written by Deborah Davis, Marie Antoinette tells the story of the incredibly modern and avant-garde young queen who was barely 14 years old when she left Austria to marry the Dauphin of France.

Free, independent and feminist ahead of her time, the fearless queen will be played by Emilia Schüle.

Blue-blood: The 24-year-old actor is playing the role of Louis XVI in the BBC drama

Sue Deeks, Head of Programme Acquisition, BBC, says: ‘Marie Antoinette possesses an enduring fascination and Deborah Davis has a very singular vision for her story – we are truly delighted to be bringing this ambitious project to BBC Two and iPlayer.’

Chris Stewart, SVP Sales, UK & Eire, Banijay Rights, says: ‘Marie Antoinette is an extraordinary fresh new take on one of France’s most iconic – and controversial – figures, filled with stunning scenery, fine performances and epic costumes.

‘Following on from the success of Versailles on BBC Two, we are excited to again bring the extravagance and excitement of French court life to UK viewers.’

It comes as filming for the highly anticipated series three of Bridgerton continued on Thursday as the cast were spotted on set in South London. 

A first look of the new season of Netflix’s hit show saw cast and crew arrive at a luxury country home in South London, decorated with purple flowers.

An array of currently unknown cast members stood out in bold period attire while chatting in front of the stunning garden.

Several female actors were spotted in long chic gowns, while carrying umbrellas to keep them shaded from the sun. 

They were accompanied by male actors, who looked dashing in 1800’s costume’s which included long suit jackets and fancy top hats. 

The cast appeared to be filming a lavish event as they all gathered in their best gear outside of the grand venue. 

The popular period drama has confirmed that it is back in production after the record-breaking second season was released in March.