Netflix’s ‘The Crown’ casts its Princess Diana for season four
One of the show's most eagerly-anticipated casting announcements has been made.
By Will Stroude
The third season of The Crown hasn’t even arrived yet, but creators of the hit Netflix series charting the trials and tribulations of Britain’s Royal Family have already raised our excitement levels for season four after revealing who’s been cast as the late Princess Diana.
Show bosses confirmed on Tuesday (9 April) that little-known actress Emma Corrin will be taking on the role of Lady Diana Spencer when filming for season four begins later this year.
The British actress, whose biggest TV role to date is a guest appearance in BBC One’s Grantchester, will portray a young Diana as The Crown tackles the early years of Margaret Thatcher’s government in the late 1970s and early ’80s.
In a statement, Corrin said: “Beyond excited and honoured to be joining The Crown for its fourth season. I have been glued to the show since the first episode and to think I’m now joining this incredibly talented acting family is just surreal.
“Princess Diana was an icon, and her effect on the world remains profound and inspiring. To be given the chance to explore her through Peter Morgan’s writing is the most exceptional opportunity, and I will strive to do her justice!”
The Crown creator Peter Morgan added: “Emma is a brilliant talent who immediately captivated us when she came in for the part of Diana Spencer.
“As well as having the innocence and beauty of a young Diana, she also has, in abundance, the range and complexity to portray an extraordinary woman who went from anonymous teenager to becoming the most iconic woman of her generation.”
After marrying Prince Charles in 1982, Diana, Princess of Wales quickly become one of the most beloved royals of the 21st century, earning the respect of the LGBTQ community for her groundbreaking Aids activism, which came at a time when fear and stigma surrounding the virus was at its height.
Season 4 of The Crown is expected to air in 2020, marking the second series with Oscar-winner Olivia Colman playing Queen Elizabeth II and Helena Bonham-Carter as Princess Margeret.
Gillian Anderson is also set to join the show’s fourth season as former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
The third series of The Crown is set to air on Netflix in 2019.