Prince William’s personal plea to Hollywood director revealed

The prince put in a request to the director behind a major franchise – proving he’s just a big fan like the rest of us.

IN LONDON

Prince William has appealed directly to the British filmmaker behind three of the five Jason Bourne movies to helm more instalments in the Matt Damon-led franchise.

The Prince of Wales, who is the president of BAFTA, was at the London headquarters this week for an event hosted by the Academy and the Royal African Society to meet recipients of the Prince William BAFTA Bursary fund.

The initiative provides grants of up to £2,000 (A$3880) to “help assist junior creatives with the costs of progressing their career in film, games or television”, as detailed by BAFTA.

According to the UK’s Times, while speaking with director Paul Greengrass at the event, William pleaded: “Another Bourne, please?”

Director Paul Greengrass and Matt Damon pictured on the set of the movie Jason Bourne. Picture: Universal Pictures

However, even a request from the future King wasn’t able to sway Greengrass, who laughed and shook his head in response.

“Not for me, they need somebody younger, I’ve done my bit,” the director later said.

“But I hope they get somebody great and young to do it, I think they’re in the process.”

He also met with actors Andy Serkis, Celia Imrie, Stephen Merchant, Mircea Monroe and BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip during the event. Picture: Jonathan Brady/Pool/AFP

Greengrass directed three of the Bourne films: The Bourne Supremacy (2004), The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) and Jason Bourne (2016).

While Greengrass himself has ruled out returning to the franchise for a fourth round, a new film is currently in development at Universal Pictures.

It would be the sixth Bourne movie, and Damon has indicated interest in returning to his iconic role.

Damon in The Bourne Ultimatum.

The prince is a huge fan of the franchise. Picture: Jonathan Brady/Pool/AFP

Meanwhile, during the BAFTA engagement, William revealed a rare personal detail about his children to one of the film students, admitting that with so many viewing options these days, Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six, were “always wrestling over the remote” at home.

He also spoke of how “crucial” it is “that aspiring creative professionals — regardless of their background or circumstance — have a real opportunity to bring their ideas and stories to life” during his speech at the event.

“As president of BAFTA, I am very proud to be involved with an organisation that is dedicated to breaking down barriers for the storytellers of the future,” he told guests.

“It’s fantastic to have met the latest cohorts today and hear about their ambitions for the future. I look forward to following your careers and seeing you become nominees and winners of BAFTA awards in years to come.”