“When the Queen passed, people were trying to draw comfort or find out more about her, and in some ways, The Crown does that for audiences”: Imelda Staunton, Jonathan Pryce, Dominic West and co-stars on The Crown season six
After an incredible journey dating back to the 1947 wedding of Princess Elizabeth and her coronation as Queen Elizabeth II, Netflix’s much-lauded series from Peter Morgan, The Crown, finally draws to a close. The same sky-high production values and painstaking set and costume details are delivered once again in the sixth and final season, which spans 1997 to 2005, a period that saw many events that shook the foundations of the monarchy to the core: the premiership of Tony Blair, the tragic death of Diana, Princess of Wales, the Gold Jubilee and farewells to Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother. This final season also brings into the fold the burgeoning romance between Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as the wedding of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles.
The Upcoming had the chance to catch up with the cast to discuss the making of the closing episodes, exploring the behind-the-curtain lives of these historical figures with both gravitas and vulnerability and the legacy they think the show leaves behind, which was put into stark relief with the passing of the Queen herself in September 2022.
Imelda Staunton shared her reflections on playing Queen Elizabeth II through to the final season of The Crown, picking up the baton from Claire Foy and Olivia Colman. We discussed her in-depth preparation for portraying the head of state, including research, coaching and costume fitting, the challenge and satisfaction of the role, and the impact of the Queen’s passing on the show. She also touched on her future plans, including theatre work.
Jonathan Pryce and Dominic West then spoke about continuing their roles as Prince Philip and Prince Charles. They reflected on taking over from previous actors, Tobias Menzies and Josh O’Connor, their research, and the emotional weight of depicting the royal family’s history, especially following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. They also considered the show’s impact legacy, as well as its potential to provide comfort to viewers.
Luther Ford, Meg Bellamy and Ed McVey shared insights into exploring the evolving relationships of Princes William and Harry, Kate’s independence and handling grief. They highlight the importance of specific period research, coaching and script guidance. They touch on personal connections to characters and filming during the Queen’s passing, hoping the show honours her legacy.
Bertie Carvel further spoke about his role as Tony Blair in the final season of the series, focusing on Blair’s arc from popularity to political challenges. He details the show’s portrayal of the prime minister as a moderniser, contrasting with the Queen’s traditionalism, and touches on the selective historical events depicted. Carvel also reflected on the significance of being part of The Crown during the Queen’s passing.
Sarah Bradbury
The Crown season six part two is released on Netflix on 14th December 2023.
Watch the trailer for The Crown season six here:
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