Paul Bettany to Play Prince Philip in 'The Crown'

Photo credit: Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved
Photo credit: Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved

From Harper's BAZAAR

According to reports, Paul Bettany is nearing a deal to replace Matt Smith on The Crown as Prince Philip. Although there is no deal in place as yet, sources have told The Hollywood Reporter that the British actor is close to signing on for Seasons 3 and 4 of the hit Netflix series.

When The Crown returns for Season 3, a brand new cast will be playing the royal family, as the characters age throughout the 1970s, and beyond. If the new reports are correct, then Bettany will replace Matt Smith in the role, portraying an older Prince Philip.

Olivia Colman has already been confirmed as taking over the role of Queen Elizabeth II from Claire Foy, and Helena Bonham Carter is rumored to be playing Princess Margaret.

Bettany has been married to actress Jennifer Connelly since 2003. In recent years, Bettany has voiced J.A.R.V.I.S. in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and starred in Manhunt: Unabomber as Ted Kaczynski. He's best known for roles in The Da Vinci Code, Wimbledon, and A Beautiful Mind.

The English actor is a strong choice for Season 3 of The Crown, and is evidence that the popular series is attracting award-winning performers as characters age and develop.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix and the show's producers, Sony Pictures Television Studios, have declined to comment on the latest casting news. However, as reports suggest that Bettany is nearing a deal, it might not be long before we hear confirmation of the actor's involvement in new episodes of The Crown.

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