Viewers are gearing up for the return of The Crown, as Olivia Colman and Tobias Menzies take over from Claire Foy and Matt Smith in the lead roles of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
However streaming service Netflix teased another huge casting on Tuesday, revealing who will play Lady Diana Spencer in season four of the hugely popular royal drama.
Newcomer Emma Corrin has been selected to play the ‘People’s Princess’, who was married to Prince Charles between 1981 and 1996, before her tragic death in a car accident in 1997.
The British actress, who previously appeared on screen in period drama Grantchester, said she was “beyond excited” at the prospect of portraying Princess Diana on screen.
“I have been glued to the show since the first episode and to think I’m now joining this incredibly talented acting family is just surreal,” she said. “Princess Diana was an icon, and her effect on the world remains profound and inspiring.
“To be given the chance to explore her through Peter Morgan’s writing is the most exceptional opportunity, and I will strive to do her justice.”
Corrin will join the likes of Helena Bonham Carter, who has taken over the role of Princess Margaret, and X-Files star Gillian Anderson who will play Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in the fourth season of the award-winning series.
The show’s creator Peter Morgan described the newcomer as a “brilliant talent”, adding that she “immediately captivated” the room when she auditioned for the role of a young Diana.
“As well as having the innocence and beauty of a young Diana, she also has, in abundance, the range and complexity to portray an extraordinary woman who went from anonymous teenager to becoming the most iconic woman of her generation,” he said.
Whilst viewers will have to wait a while to see Corrin’s portrayal of Diana, they can expect to see the introduction of a young Camilla Shand – now known as the Duchess of Cornwall – when the show returns for its third season later this year.
It is also thought that the next instalment of the hit Netflix show will explore the romantic life of Princess Anne, including her past loves, sad divorce and long road to happiness in the late 1960s and early 1970s.