The Crown is finally approaching one of the most anticipated periods in royal history: the life of Princess Diana. Fans who are familiar with how well the Netflix series casts its actors have already been getting excited, wondering who might play the beloved Lady Di, and they got an answer a few months back. She’ll be portrayed by actor Emma Corrin in the show’s fourth season, and Corrin was recently photographed on set, looking exactly like the people’s princess.
Corrin, a relatively new, 24-year-old actor from the U.K., previously starred on the crime drama Pennyworth. Right when her casting was announced, she posted a carefree picture of Princess Diana with no caption, indicating that she’s carefully observing her mannerisms. In a statement, she talked about how she’s a big fan of The Crown and how she wants to make sure she nails the role.
“I have been glued to the show and to think I’m now joining this incredibly talented acting family is surreal,” she said. “Princess Diana was an icon and her effect on the world remains profound and inspiring. To explore her through Peter Morgan’s writing is the most exceptional opportunity, and I will strive to do her justice.”
Here’s Erin Corrin playing her on The Crown:
Judging by these photos, she’s definitely got the spirit of the character down. The images were taken on location in Winchester, England, and you can just barely see a floral dress under Corrin’s beige coat. Several outlets have pointed out that it looks like one Princess Diana wore at the final rehearsal before her wedding to Prince Charles at St Paul’s Cathedral in 1981:
She has a vote of confidence from show creator Peter Morgan. “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.