Netflix’s historical drama “The Crown” has elicited a range of reactions from members of the British royal family, with some acknowledging they have watched the show, while others have expressed reservations about its portrayal of real events and family dynamics.
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has openly discussed the series, stating that while “The Crown” is fictional, it does give a rough idea of the pressures of royal life. On the Stephen Colbert show, he told the host he was more comfortable with “The Crown” than stories written about his family in the media
He also mentioned that he fact-checks the older episodes of the show. His statement suggests an awareness of the series’ blend of historical fact and artistic interpretation.
In contrast, Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, reportedly has not watched the show. This avoidance could indicate a desire to distance himself from the dramatized depiction of his family’s history.
King Charles III, formerly known as Prince Charles, has reportedly shown little concern about his portrayal in the series, suggesting that it is “nowhere near” reality. This response indicates a level of detachment from the fictionalized account of his life. However, King Charles was not happy about the timing of the release of the series, at the time of his ascension to the throne after Queen Elizabeth’s death. It didn’t exactly make him look good.
Queen Camilla, formerly Camilla Parker Bowles, has also responded lightheartedly to her depiction in the show, joking about her character and indicating a sense of humor about the portrayal.
Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away last year, reportedly watched the first season of “The Crown” and enjoyed it. However, she was said to be upset by the depiction of Prince Philip, her late husband, in the second season. This response highlights the personal impact the series can have on those it portrays.
Other members of the royal family have expressed varying opinions. Princess Eugenie and Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, said they enjoyed watching the show. Princess Anne, the Queen’s only daughter, commented on her hair styling in the series. Zara and Mike Tindall, members of the wider royal family, have also watched some seasons of the series.
Claire Foy and Vanessa Kirby, who played Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret respectively, shared insights into the royal family’s reception of the show. Foy mentioned she would hate it if the real Queen watched it, while Kirby relayed that Princess Eugenie said the Queen liked watching the show.
Dame Judi Dench, a respected figure in British arts, called for disclaimers about scenes without direct witnesses, underscoring concerns about the blending of fact and fiction in the series.
Earl Charles Spencer, the late Princess Diana’s brother, expressed concern that viewers might forget the fictional nature of the series and denied the show access to film at his estate.
The Crown’s portrayal of the British monarchy has been noted for its high production value, though some dialogue and scenes are fictionalized. The show has explored the tensions between monarchial duties and private lives, particularly during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. However, it stops short of passing definitive judgments on the future of the British monarchy.
The series has become a significant cultural representation of the British monarchy, influencing public perceptions of the royals. It portrays them in a way that seems more human and emotionally intimate than their traditional public personas, forming a type of parasocial relationship between audiences and the fictionalized royals.