The captivating world of “The Crown” continues to unfold as we eagerly anticipate the upcoming seasons, particularly season 6, which marks the series’ grand finale. The exceptional cast, led by Imelda Staunton in her role as Queen Elizabeth II, ensures that the real history behind this royal drama is brought to life. In this detailed guide, we will introduce you to the full list of actors and characters in seasons 5 and 6 of “The Crown.” Additionally, we will delve into the major events that await each character, along with some fascinating insights into the actors’ backgrounds and previous work.
Imelda Staunton CBE as Queen Elizabeth II
Previous Portrayals: Claire Foy initially breathed life into Queen Elizabeth II in the first two seasons of “The Crown.” Olivia Colman took over the role for the third and fourth seasons, with Claire Foy making cameo appearances in the fourth and fifth seasons for a flashback sequence and a television reel, respectively.
What Awaits the Character: Queen Elizabeth II faces one of the most significant threats to her reign following the public backlash in the aftermath of Diana, Princess of Wales’s tragic death. The 2002 deaths of her sister, Princess Margaret, and her mother further test her mettle as she celebrates her own Golden Jubilee.
Imelda Staunton’s Previous Work: Imelda Staunton is a renowned actress of both stage and screen, known for her remarkable performances in various costume dramas. Notably, she earned an Oscar nomination for her role in “Vera Drake” and appeared in blockbuster franchises like “Harry Potter.” Her extensive filmography also includes “Downton Abbey,” “Return to Cranford,” and “Pride,” among others.
Elizabeth Debicki as Diana, Princess of Wales
Previous Portrayal: Emma Corrin depicted Lady Diana Spencer, later known as Princess Diana, in the fourth season of “The Crown.”
What Awaits the Character: Diana’s journey in the series continues as she explores her identity outside of her marriage to Charles following their divorce. She pursues activism and experiences a romantic relationship with Dodi Fayed, ultimately meeting a tragic end in a car crash in Paris in August 1997. Elizabeth Debicki will also portray Diana posthumously in imagined scenes between the Windsors and the late Princess of Wales.
Elizabeth Debicki’s Previous Work: The Australian actress is best known for her roles in films like “The Great Gatsby,” “Widows,” “Tenet,” “The Burnt Orange Heresy,” and “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2.” She also starred in the television series “The Night Manager” alongside Tom Hiddleston.
Sir Jonathan Pryce CBE as Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
Previous Portrayals: Matt Smith initially played the Duke of Edinburgh in the first and second seasons of “The Crown.” Tobias Menzies took over the role for the third and fourth seasons.
What Awaits the Character: Prince Philip, in the 1990s, stands by Queen Elizabeth and the royal family during trying times, including the aftermath of Diana, Princess of Wales’s death. The series will continue to explore his friendship with Penny Knatchbull, Lady Romsey.
Jonathan Pryce’s Previous Work: Sir Jonathan Pryce is a celebrated actor of both stage and screen, with an extensive portfolio. He is best known for his roles in films such as “Brazil,” the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, “The Two Popes,” “Tomorrow Never Dies,” “The Age of Innocence,” “Wolf Hall,” and “Game of Thrones.”
Lesley Manville CBE as Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon
Previous Portrayals: Vanessa Kirby played Princess Margaret in the first two seasons, and Helena Bonham Carter took on the role for the third and fourth seasons. Kirby also made appearances through archive footage in the fifth season.
What Awaits the Character: The Queen’s younger sister, Princess Margaret, faces ongoing health challenges in her final years before her passing in 2002.
Lesley Manville’s Previous Work: Lesley Manville is a celebrated actress of both stage and screen, known for her collaborations with director Mike Leigh. She has been a part of notable projects such as the BBC comedy “Mum,” her Oscar-nominated performance in “Phantom Thread,” and “Mrs Harris Goes to Paris.”
Dominic West as Charles, Prince of Wales
Previous Portrayals: Child actors Billy Jenkins and Julian Baring portrayed Prince Charles in the first two seasons. The character was then portrayed as an adult by Josh O’Connor in the third and fourth seasons.
What Awaits the Character: Charles navigates the aftermath of his divorce from Diana before his life takes a momentous turn after her tragic demise. Later in the season, viewers will witness Charles’s marriage to his longtime love, Camilla Parker Bowles.
Dominic West’s Previous Work: Dominic West is acclaimed for his roles in television series such as “The Wire,” “The Affair,” and his BAFTA-winning performance as Fred West in “Appropriate Adult.” He has also appeared in films including “Chicago,” “300,” “Punisher: War Zone,” “John Carter,” “The Square,” “Tomb Raider,” and “Colette.”
Bertie Carvel as Prime Minister Tony Blair
Who is Tony Blair? The leader of the Labour Party and an era-defining politician, Tony Blair served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007.
Bertie Carvel’s Previous Work: Bertie Carvel, an Olivier Award-winning stage actor, has also made a name for himself in the world of television. His notable television roles include “Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell,” “Doctor Foster,” and “Dalgliesh.”
Lydia Leonard as Cherie Blair
Who is Cherie Blair? Cherie Blair is an English barrister, writer, and the wife of Tony Blair.
Lydia Leonard’s Previous Work: Lydia Leonard is best known for her roles in television series like “Jericho,” “Apple Tree Yard,” “Quacks,” “Absentia,” “Gentleman Jack,” “Flesh and Blood,” “Red Election,” and “Ten Percent.”
Marcia Warren as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother
Previous Portrayals: Victoria Hamilton portrayed The Queen Mother in the first two seasons before Marion Bailey took on the role for the third and fourth seasons.
What Awaits the Character: The Queen Mother faces the challenges of losing Princess Diana in 1997 and her own daughter, Princess Margaret, in 2002, before her own passing later that same year.
Marcia Warren’s Previous Work: Marcia Warren is a double Olivier Award-winning stage actress and has also appeared in the BBC sitcom “No Place Like Home” and the ITV sitcom “Vicious.”
Olivia Williams as Camilla Parker Bowles
Previous Portrayal: Emerald Fennell portrayed Camilla in the third and fourth seasons of “The Crown.”
What Awaits the Character: Camilla continues her relationship with Charles, providing him with support in the aftermath of Diana’s death, and eventually marries him, becoming the Duchess of Cornwall.
Olivia Williams’ Previous Work: Olivia Williams is best known for her roles in films like “Emma,” “The Postman,” “Rushmore,” “The Sixth Sense,” “Lucky Break,” “An Education,” and “The Father.”
Claudia Harrison as Anne, Princess Royal
Previous Portrayal: The character of Princess Anne was portrayed as an adult by Erin Doherty in the third and fourth seasons of “The Crown.”
What Awaits the Character: Anne is now happily married to Commander Timothy Laurence.
Claudia Harrison’s Previous Work: Harrison has been seen in “The Cat’s Meow,” “The IT Crowd,” and “Murphy’s Law.”
Salim Dau and Amir El-Masry as Mohamed Al-Fayed
Who is Mohamed Al-Fayed? Mohamed Al-Fayed is a self-made Egyptian-born businessman who seeks to enter high society circles in the United Kingdom but fails to gain true proximity to the royals. He befriends Diana and introduces her to his son, Dodi.
Salim Dau’s Previous Work: Salim Dau is known for his roles in “Gaza mon amour,” “Fauda,” and “Tyrant.”
Amir El-Masry’s Previous Work: British-Egyptian actor Amir El-Masry is best known for his Scottish BAFTA win for his role in the film “Limbo.” He has also starred in the BBC/HBO drama “Industry,” Amazon’s “Jack Ryan” series, and will appear in “SAS: Rogue Heroes.”
Khalid Abdalla as Dodi Fayed
Who is Dodi Fayed? Dodi Fayed is an Egyptian film producer and the son of billionaire Mohamed Al-Fayed. He becomes the final boyfriend of Diana, Princess of Wales, before their tragic deaths in Paris in August 1997.
Khalid Abdalla’s Previous Work: The Egyptian-British actor is best known for his roles in “United 93,” “The Kite Runner,” “Green Zone,” and the documentary “The Square.”
Rufus Kampa and Ed McVey as Prince William of Wales
Previous Portrayals: Lucas Barber-Grant played Prince William in “The Crown” season 4, while Senan West, the son of actor Dominic West, takes on the character in the fifth season.
What Awaits the Character: Prince William must navigate the aftermath of his parents’ divorce, his mother’s tragic death, and his experiences at university, where he meets his future wife, Catherine Middleton.
Rufus Kampa and Ed McVey’s Backgrounds: Both Rufus Kampa and Ed McVey are newcomers to the acting scene.
Fflyn Edwards and Luthor Ford as Prince Harry of Wales
Previous Portrayals: Arran Tinker played Prince Harry in the fourth season, while Will Powell portrayed him in later episodes of that same season.
What Awaits the Character: Prince Harry grapples with his parents’ separation and is profoundly affected by his mother’s tragic passing.
Fflyn Edwards and Luthor Ford’s Backgrounds: Both Fflyn Edwards and Luthor Ford are emerging talents in the acting industry.
Meg Bellamy as Catherine Middleton
Who is Catherine Middleton? Catherine Middleton, a student at St. Andrew’s University, crosses paths with Prince William. In reality, she later becomes his wife and the Princess of Wales.
Meg Bellamy’s Background: Meg Bellamy is a newcomer to the acting scene, with “The Crown” marking her first major role.
Andrew Havill as Robert Fellowes
Who is Robert Fellowes? Robert Fellowes serves as the Private Secretary to Queen Elizabeth II from 1990 to 1999. He is also the brother-in-law of Princess Diana, being married to Lady Jane Spencer.
Andrew Havill’s Previous Work: Andrew Havill is a seasoned British character actor known for his performances in costume dramas like “Nicholas Nickleby,” “The Iron Lady,” “Hyde Park on Hudson,” “The Imitation Game,” “The King,” “Downton Abbey,” and “The Duke.”
James Murray as Prince Andrew, Duke of York
Previous Portrayal: Actor Tom Byrne portrayed the Queen’s second son, Prince Andrew, in “The Crown” season 4.
What Awaits the Character: The Duke of York is portrayed following his divorce from Sarah, Duchess of York.
James Murray’s Previous Work: James Murray is best known for his television roles in series like “Primeval,” “Defiance,” “Cucumber,” and “McDonald & Dodds.”
Theo Fraser Steele as Commander Timothy Laurence
Who is Commander Timothy Laurence? Commander Timothy Laurence is the second husband of Anne, Princess Royal.
Theo Fraser Steele’s Previous Work: Steele has appeared in the series “Hex” and “The Thick Of It,” as well as the films “The Golden Compass” and “Mrs Brown.”
Sam Woolf as Prince Edward
Previous Portrayal: Angus Imrie, known for his role in “The Spanish Princess,” portrayed Prince Edward in “The Crown” season 4.
What Awaits the Character: In the years covered by the sixth season, Edward marries Sophie Rhys-Jones.
Sam Woolf’s Previous Work: Sam Woolf has previously appeared in minor roles in series like “Strike,” “Call the Midwife,” and “Humans.”
Richard Rycroft as George Carey, Archbishop of Canterbury
Who is George Carey? George Carey served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1991 to 2002. In his role, he was the principal leader of the Church of England beneath the Supreme Head, the monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.
Richard Rycroft’s Previous Work: Richard Rycroft is best known for his role as Maester Wolkan in “Game of Thrones,” and he has also appeared in productions like “Wolf Hall,” “Secret Smile,” and “Not Going Out.”
Matilda Broadbridge as Pippa Middleton
Who is Pippa Middleton? Pippa Middleton is the sister of Catherine Middleton and the future sister-in-law of Prince William.
Matilda Broadbridge’s Background: Matilda Broadbridge is a newcomer to the acting world, and “The Crown” marks her first significant role.
Jonny Lee Miller as Prime Minister John Major
Who is John Major? John Major was the leader of the Conservative Party and served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1990 to 1997. He lost the general election to Tony Blair. In the series, Major acts as a mediator in the difficult divorce between the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Jonny Lee Miller’s Previous Work: Jonny Lee Miller is known for a wide range of roles in films like “Hackers,” “Trainspotting,” and its sequel “T2: Trainspotting,” as well as television roles, including his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in the series “Elementary.”
Natascha McElhone as Penelope Knatchbull, Lady Romsey
Who is Lady Romsey? Lady Romsey is the second cousin of Charles, Prince of Wales, and a close friend of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
Natascha McElhone’s Previous Work: The British actress is a Hollywood star known for her roles in films like “Ronin,” “The Truman Show,” and “Solaris.” McElhone has also appeared in television series such as “Californication,” “Designated Survivor,” and “The First.”
Flora Montgomery as Norma Major
Who is Norma Major? Norma Major is the wife of Prime Minister John Major and an English philanthropist.
Flora Montgomery’s Previous Work: The Northern Irish actress has previously starred in series like “The Bill,” “Urban Gothic,” “Pulling Moves,” “Midsomer Murder,” and films including “The Discovery of Heaven” and “Basic Instinct 2.”
Timothy Dalton as Group Captain Peter Townsend
Previous Portrayal: Ben Miles portrayed the character in the first and second seasons.
What Awaits the Character: Group Captain Peter Townsend is set to have an emotional reunion with his former love, Princess Margaret.
Timothy Dalton’s Previous Work: Timothy Dalton is best known for his portrayals of James Bond in “The Living Daylights” and “Licence to Kill.” He has also appeared in films like “The Lion in Winter,” “Flash Gordon,” “The Rocketeer,” “Looney Tunes: Back in Action,” “Hot Fuzz,” and “The Tourist.” Dalton has had television roles in productions like “Jane Eyre,” “Doctor Who,” “Penny Dreadful,” and “Doom Patrol.”
Humayun Saeed as Dr Hasnat Khan
Who is Dr Hasnat Khan? Dr Hasnat Khan is a British-Pakistani heart and lung surgeon who becomes the lover of Diana, Princess of Wales.
Humayun Saeed’s Previous Work: Humayun Saeed is a Pakistani actor and producer who has appeared in numerous Pakistani films and television series.
Prasanna Puwanarajah as Martin Bashir
Who is Martin Bashir? Martin Bashir is a BBC journalist known for his famous interview with Diana, Princess of Wales on an episode of “Panorama.”
Prasanna Puwanarajah’s Previous Work: Puwanarajah has appeared in series like “Mum,” “Line of Duty,” “Three Families,” and “Ten Percent.”
Alex Jennings as Edward, Duke of Windsor
Previous Portrayal: Jennings played the role of Edward, Duke of Windsor in the first two seasons, and Sir Derek Jacobi portrayed the character in his final days in the eighth episode of the third season, titled “Dangling Man.”
What Else Has Alex Jennings Been In?: Jennings has appeared as Prince Charles in Peter Morgan’s “The Queen,” and he has starred in films like “The Wings of the Dove,” “Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason,” “Babel,” “Belle,” and “The Lady in the Van.” He has also had television roles in series such as “Victoria,” “A Very British Scandal,” and “Small Axe.”
Lia Williams as Wallis, Duchess of Windsor
Previous Portrayal: Williams played the role of Wallis, Duchess of Windsor in the first two seasons, while Geraldine Chaplin portrayed the character for two episodes in the third season.
What Else Has Lia Williams Been In?: Williams can also be seen in “Seaforth,” “The Russian Bride,” “Doc Martin,” “The Missing,” “Kiri,” “His Dark Materials,” and “The Capture.”
Andrew Steele as Andrew Morton
Who is Andrew Morton? Andrew Morton is a journalist and biographer who wrote a tell-all book about the challenges faced by Diana, Princess of Wales.
Andrew Steele’s Previous Work: Steele has appeared in series like “Bad Sisters,” “Outlander,” and “Free Rein.” He also appeared in the 2018 drama “The Royals.”
Emma Laird Craig as Sarah, Duchess of York
Previous Portrayal: Jessica Aquilina portrayed Sarah Ferguson in “The Crown” season 4.
What Awaits the Character: Sarah, Duchess of York, will witness the breakdown of her marriage to the Duke of York.
Emma Laird Craig’s Background: Emma Laird Craig is a relatively new face in the acting world and has previously had a minor role in “EastEnders.”
Oliver Chris as Dr James Colhurst
Who is Dr James Colhurst? Dr James Colhurst is a doctor and a close friend of Diana, Princess of Wales, who assists in the publication of a tell-all book by Andrew Morton.
Oliver Chris’s Previous Work: Oliver Chris has appeared in series like “A Very British Scandal,” “Trying,” and “Motherland.”
Jude Akuwudike as Sydney Johnson
Who is Sydney Johnson? Sydney Johnson was the former valet to Edward, Duke of Windsor. He later becomes a friend and advisor to Mohamed Al-Fayed.
Jude Akuwudike’s Previous Work: Jude Akuwudike has appeared in films such as “Sahara,” “The Tempest,” “Beasts of No Nation,” “Eyimofe,” and “Benediction.” On television, Akuwudike has been featured in acclaimed series like “Cucumber,” “Chewing Gum,” “Kiri,” “Fortitude,” “In the Long Run,” “Moving On,” and “Gangs of London.”
Other Supporting Actors in “The Crown” Season 5
Aside from the main cast, “The Crown” season 5 includes a host of other supporting characters, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. These actors and their respective roles help to create a more immersive experience for viewers.
The following is a list of other supporting actors in “The Crown” season 5:
- Olivia Williams as Camilla Parker Bowles
- Jamie Glover as Patrick Jephson
- Alastair Mackenzie as Commander Richard Aylard
- Elliot Cowan as Norton Knatchbull, Lord Romsey
- Edward Powell as Nicholas Knatchbull
- Elodie Vickers as Alexandra Knatchbull
- Timothée Sambor as young Prince William of Wales
- Teddy Hawley as young Prince Harry of Wales
- Chayma Abdelkarimi as Samira Khashoggi
- Ahmed Ghozzi as Adnan Khashoggi
- Paul Croft as Father Alan Newman
- Michele Dotrice as Mrs. Newman
- Sean Green as Newsnight Director
- Andrew Leung as Prince Michael of Kent
- Samantha Bowling as Marie Stubbs
- Moya Brady as Livia
- Laurence Fox as John F. Kennedy Jr.
- Claire Greenway as Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy
- Mark Page as Neil Hutchinson
- Sadia Barre as Farah Khan
- Maja Wampuszyc as Jennifer Rose Swift
- Aleksander Dluzniewski as Mr. Fayed
- Isabel Gosling as Prince Andrew’s Assistant
- Kai Dawes as University Security Guard
- Samantha Bowling as Marie Stubbs
- Jem Dobbs as George Hussey
- David Gunawijeya as Sri Lankan Soldier
- Dana Marie Ingraham as Disgruntled Stewardess
- Alby James as Wallis’s Butler
- Simran Kular as Sri Lankan Army Sergeant
- Robert Maillet as Jay Gosh
- Gemma Nguyen as Newsnight Floor Manager
- Veronika O’Keane as Mum in waiting room
- Aynsley Bubbico as PR Lady
The Historical Context of “The Crown” Season 5 and 6
The Falklands War (1982): The Falklands War between the United Kingdom and Argentina is one of the significant historical events that takes place during the timeline of season 5. The war was triggered by Argentina’s invasion of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. The conflict concluded with the UK’s victory and the restoration of British control over the islands.
Prince Charles and Camilla’s Wedding (2005): Season 5 covers the wedding of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles, which took place on April 9, 2005. The event was a civil ceremony held at the Guildhall in Windsor, followed by a service of blessing at St. George’s Chapel. It marked a significant moment in Prince Charles’s life and royal duties.
The Royal Jubilee (2002): Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her Golden Jubilee in 2002, commemorating her 50-year reign. This event provides a significant backdrop for season 5. During the jubilee celebrations, Queen Elizabeth and other members of the royal family participated in various events, including a tour of the United Kingdom.
The Deaths of Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (2002): Season 5 covers the deaths of two significant members of the royal family, Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Both passed away in 2002, and their deaths are part of the series’ historical narrative.
The Death of Princess Diana (1997): One of the most profound and tragic moments in modern British history is the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, which is a central element of season 5. Princess Diana died in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997. The aftermath of her death, including the reaction of the royal family and the public, is explored in the series.
Major Political Events: Season 5 delves into major political events, including the leadership of Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major. It examines the dynamic between the royal family and these Prime Ministers during their terms in office.
Meet the Creators of “The Crown” Season 5 and 6
The fifth season of “The Crown” and its grand finale in season 6 continue the legacy of remarkable creators responsible for the show’s previous seasons. Here’s a look at the creative talent behind these two seasons:
Peter Morgan (Creator and Writer): Peter Morgan is the creator, head writer, and key figure behind “The Crown.” His skillful storytelling, historical accuracy, and nuanced character portrayals have earned the series critical acclaim. Morgan also wrote films like “The Queen” and “The King’s Speech,” which share thematic connections with “The Crown.”
Stephen Daldry (Director): Stephen Daldry, a renowned director of both theater and film, serves as the director for the fifth season of “The Crown.” His impressive body of work includes acclaimed films like “The Hours,” “Billy Elliot,” “The Reader,” and stage productions such as “An Inspector Calls” and “Billy Elliot the Musical.”
Ben Caron (Director): Ben Caron, who has directed numerous episodes of “The Crown” in earlier seasons, returns as a director for the sixth season. He is known for his work on television series like “Sherlock,” “The Devil’s Whore,” and “The Hollow Crown.”
Oona O’Beirn (Production Designer): Oona O’Beirn, the production designer for the fifth season, is instrumental in recreating the grandeur of the royal palaces and locations. She has worked on other period pieces like “Downton Abbey” and “War & Peace.”
Julia Hapgood (Costume Designer): Julia Hapgood is the costume designer for the fifth season. Her work involves creating historically accurate and visually stunning costumes for the characters. She has contributed to series such as “Victoria” and “Les Misérables.”
Conclusion
The fifth and sixth seasons of “The Crown” promise to be a compelling continuation of the series, delving into the turbulent years of the 1990s and early 2000s in the United Kingdom. With a talented ensemble cast, including Imelda Staunton as Queen Elizabeth II, and a creative team known for their commitment to historical authenticity, these seasons are sure to captivate audiences around the world. As “The Crown” explores the lives, challenges, and triumphs of the British royal family during this era, it offers a unique blend of history, drama, and visual storytelling.
Whether you are a long-time fan of “The Crown” or a newcomer to the series, these seasons promise an engrossing and emotionally charged narrative. As we step into this next chapter of royal history, “The Crown” continues to be a shining example of television excellence.
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