The Crown season six

After seven years and six seasons, Netflix’s hit series The Crown has come to its end, bowing out on a sombre and respectful note. Following the death of Princess Diana, the second part of the final season picks up in the aftermath of the tragedy. The monarchy is facing backlash from a public who think the establishment has become outdated, William (Ed McVey) has started university, where he begins his romance with Kate Middleton (Meg Bellamy), and Tony Blair’s (Bertie Carvel) popularity takes a nosedive. The closing chapter of this season is one of change and transition as the monarchy enters a new century with a generation set to take over.

Jumping through the years, the last episodes aren’t given the time to go into depth about much of what they cover. Harry’s infamous costume blunder, 9/11 and a further investigation into Diana’s death are barely skimmed over without much thought. Themes surrounding modernity and tradition are likewise withheld the opportunity to develop to better flesh out the series’ main talking points. Consequently, the finale of The Crown can sometimes feel like a sprint to the finish line than the thoughtful examination it gives the appearance of being.

It’s in the dazzling turns from the whole cast where the latter half of the season is at its best. As has been the case with the previous seasons, each actor gives their all to deliver performances that are both lifelike and endearingly human. Although the historical embellishments can verge on being eye-roll-worthy on occasion (one moment involving a young Kate locking eyes with William being especially corny), the script never loses sight of the emotional core behind each moment.

As the series approaches its close, the focus shifts from the family drama to one of reflection of the late Elizabeth II’s (who’s once again played flawlessly by Imelda Staunton) life and reign that is frequently moving and heartfelt, particularly when it comes to one scene involving the monarch and her sister. Concluding on an ending which is both dignified and subdued, The Crown ends its run on a somewhat flawed but otherwise magnificent finale that celebrates the life of the Queen.

Andrew Murray

The Crown season six is released on Netflix on 14^th December 2023.

Watch the trailer for The Crown season six here: