First look at an older Prince Philip as new actor takes on The Crown role

After months of waiting, fans of The Crown were finally treated to a sneak peak of leading man Tobias Menzies in costume for the first time, since taking on the highly anticipated role of Prince Philip in the upcoming series.

Cast as the Queen’s husband back in March, the 44-year-old Outlander star has taken over the role from former Doctor Who Matt Smith who played a younger Philip in the first two seasons of the popular Netflix show.

But fans have had to wait a while to see the actor in full regal dress as show bosses left his reveal to the very last having previously released pictures of fellow cast members, including Olivia Colman who is taking on the role of Her Majesty The Queen.

Back in July images of Colman, as well as Helena Bonham Carter and Ben Daniels in character as the Queen’s rebellious sister Princess Margaret and her husband Antony Armstrong-Jones, also known as Lord Snowdon, were revealed.

However Menzies’ picture was only shared on Twitter last week, alongside the simple yet bold caption: “Ambition”.

The talented actor can be seen standing in one of the grand rooms of Buckingham Palace, looking dapper in a suit with an impressive collection of medals pinned to his chest.

Ambition. pic.twitter.com/u2AVWK1u5c

— The Crown (@TheCrownNetflix) August 28, 2018

It was an exciting moment for fans who have been eagerly awaiting more updates on the upcoming third season after producers announced that an entire new cast had been selected to portray the lead characters as the show will jump ahead to the 1970s in the next instalment.

And it seems that their choices have not disappointed fans, with many commenting how impressed they are with the producers’ decision to cast Menzies.

Read more: Revealed: Helena Bonham Carter’s royal transformation into Princess Margaret

“Tobias Menzies is a fantastic actor, loved his work on #Outlander and I’m so excited to see what he brings to Prince Philip #TheCrown,” one person said.

“He looks perfect, and you nailed this casting. Can’t wait to see him on-screen!” another added.

While a third commented: “At long last! A photo of @TobiasMenzies as Prince Philip. And what a beautiful photo it is. Well worth the wait. So looking forward to S3 of #TheCrown.”

The third season which is currently in production, is expected to premier in 2019. The show will pick up where season two left off in 1964 and will cover the Queen’s life through the early 1970’s, as well as exploring her daughter Princess Anne’s love life.

Read more: Viewers get first look at Olivia Coleman as Queen Elizabeth in The Crown

The Golden Globe-winning series has captivated audiences since its premier, in large part for its warts-and-all account of the royal family’s personal lives and its gripping portrayal of the historical events that catapulted the monarchy into the 20th century. The first two series followed the story of the Queen as she succeeded her father to ascend the throne, detailing her relationship with her husband, Prince Philip.

Are you a fan of The Crown? What do you think of the new casting?