Netflix’s highly anticipated third season of The Crown is set to drop in 2019, with Helena Bonahm Carter finally being confirmed to take over as Princess Margaret in the series’ next phase.
It had been widely reported that the Harry Potter actress would be taking over from Vanessa Kirby when the time-jump occurred. Vanessa had even shared an Instagram photo with Helena back in January, writing that she was “honoured” in the caption.
However, the official confirmation only came today courtesy of Netflix.
“I’m not sure which I’m more terrified about – doing justice to the real Princess Margaret or following in the shoes of Vanessa Kirby,” Helena said in a statement.
“The only thing I can guarantee is that I’ll be shorter than Vanessa.”
Netflix also confirmed that Jason Watkins has been cast to play Prime Minister Harold Wilson, of which the actor said: “I am delighted to become part of this exceptional show.”
“Harold Wilson is a significant and fascinating character in our history. So looking forward to bringing him to life, through a decade that transformed us culturally and politically. And excited to be working so closely with Olivia; and the whole team.”
Season 3 will begin in 1964, the year Labour leader Wilson entered 10 Downing Street for the first time. His term marked several major progressive reforms in the UK and he had a documented pleasant relationship with Her Majesty.
The streaming service had previously confirmed that Olivia Colman would replace Claire Foy in the lead role as Queen Elizabeth II, and that Tobias Menzies would replace Matt Smith as her husband Prince Philip.
Of the replacements, Claire gushed to Jimmy Fallon: “You’ll forget all about me and the rest of the cast. You’ll be like, ‘Who are they?’ We’re the warm-up act.”
While we’re sad to bid farewell to our beloved cast, we can’t wait to see how the show continues.
