This week, season 4 of The Crown launched on Netflix. The Crown, for those that don’t know, is a historical drama about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. But the queen isn’t the only reason to watch this show.
What’s it all about?
The fourth series spans from 1977 to 1990. Thatcher’s premiership is portrayed within this series. We watch her become Britain’s first female Prime Minister in 1979 and the drama leads to her resignation in 1990.
The reported tensions that arise between Thatcher and the Queen are portrayed within this series. We watch as relations between the pair grow even worse as Thatcher leads the country into the Falklands War, generating conflict within the Commonwealth.
Meanwhile, Queen Elizabeth and her family are trying to safeguard the line of succession by securing an appropriate bride for Prince Charles, who is still unmarried at 30. Cue Lady Diana Spencer. We watch as Lady Di meets Charles and subsequently became princess. Camilla features too, of course.
Who stars in The Crown?
New actors are cast within The Crown every two seasons. In season four, Olivia Colman starts as Queen Elizabeth and Helena Bonham Carter portrays Princess Margaret. Whilst Gillian Anderson debuts as Maggie Thatcher and Emma Corrin takes up the role of Princess Diana.
What’s next?
The first season was released by Netflix on 4 November, 2016. The second on 8 December, 2017 and the third on 17 November, 2019. The fourth hit our screens on 15 November, 2020 and a fifth season is anticipated towards the back end of 2022. The Crown has certainly become something of an autumn staple!
We don’t know when the sixth season of The Crown will be released. But it will be the final one. The final season will cover the Queen’s reign into the 21st century.
Why should I watch it?
The Crown is a drama, but it is loosely based on the monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II, Maggie Thatcher and Princess Diana are all iconic women and it’s interesting seeing their stories unfold.
This programme is also a stage for some of the world’s finest actresses. Olivia Colman and Gillian Anderson in particular are wonderful to watch.
Strong women, playing strong women, what’s not to love?
