How "The Crown"'s Prince William and Kate Middleton Compare to Their Real-Life Counterparts

At long last, fans of The Crown will get to witness the start of Prince William and Kate Middleton's love story with Part 1 of Season 6, which officially drops on Netflix on November 16. To take on the task of bringing this world-famous couple to life onscreen, Netflix casted acting newcomers Ed McVey and Meg Bellamy as William and Kate.

Bellamy briefly talked about her excitement for her role as Kate in a September 2022 Instagram post, in which she wrote, “Pinch me please..So excited to announce that I will be playing Kate Middleton in Series 6 of Netflix’s ‘The Crown’. It is such an honour to be joining the most incredible cast and crew, and I will strive to do Kate justice. ❤️👑”

McVey echoed that sentiment with his own Instagram post, writing, “Ahhhhh the big news is now out!!! I’m absolutely buzzing to be given the opportunity to play Prince William in #thecrown in Series 6!!! Along side the amazing @megkbellamy Gunna be an amazing shoot can’t wait to learn all I can!”

Besides their acting chops, the two also happen to bear uncanny physical similarities to the early aughts version of the now-Prince and Princess of Wales. Ahead, we compare photos of The Crown actors on set to their real-life counterparts.

Ed McVey as Prince William

The Crown is McVey's first major onscreen role. The actor previously studied at the Drama Centre London and has participated in productions of Rosmerholm, Government Inspector, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the Pains of Youth.

Meg Bellamy as Kate Middleton

The Crown is also Bellamy's first major onscreen gig, though she previously starred in 2021 short film, The Prince of Savile Row.

Dominic West as Prince Charles

The Golden Globe-nominated actor is reprising his role as Prince William's father, Prince Charles, whom West previously played in Season 5 of The Crown. He's best known for his work in HBO's The Wire and Showtime's The Affair.

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