‘The Crown’: Josh O’Connor to Play Prince Charles, Marion Bailey the Queen Mother
Rising British star Josh O’Connor will play Prince Charles in Netflix’s hit series “The Crown.” He will step into the role of the heir to the throne for the show’s upcoming third and fourth seasons. The producers also announced Thursday that Marion Bailey (“Allied”) will play Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
O’Connor was lauded for his starring role in indie British film “God’s Own Country,” which won him the best-actor prize at the British Independent Film Awards last December. He has also been nominated as a BAFTA Rising Star.
“I am thrilled to be joining The Firm for the next installment of ‘The Crown,'” said O’Connor, who replaces Julian Baring in the role. “Seasons 3 and 4 will follow some of the most turbulent events in the Prince of Wales’ life and our national story, and I’m excited to be bringing to life the man in the midst of it all. I’m very aware it’s a formidably talented family to be joining, but reliably informed I have the ears for the part and will fit right in.”
Bailey will play the Queen Mother, who held a special place in the affections of the British public. She replaces Victoria Hamilton in the series. “Wonderful to be joining ‘The Crown,'” Bailey said. “It’s a brilliant show, and we have a tough act to follow, but what a gift to be playing the fascinating and greatly loved Queen Mother. Thrilled to be on board and working with such a top-notch team.”
The sophomore season of the royal-family drama received 13 Emmy nominations, including one for best drama. Season 3 launches next year.
The cast for the next two seasons is now largely in place. Olivia Colman will play Queen Elizabeth II and Tobias Menzies her husband, Prince Philip. Helena Bonham Carter will portray the queen’s sister, Princess Margaret, and Antony Armstrong-Jones her husband, Lord Snowdon.
“The Crown” was created by Peter Morgan and is produced by Left Bank Pictures.
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