The Crown is a historical drama television series created and written by Peter Morgan and produced by Left Bank Pictures and Sony Pictures Television for Netflix. It follows the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth II, from her coronation in 1953 to the present day. The series has been praised for its attention to detail and complex characterizations, as well as for its all-star cast, which includes Claire Foy, Matt Smith, Vanessa Kirby, and John Lithgow.
The series has been a huge success, with a total of four seasons released so far. The first season, which premiered in 2016, focuses on Queen Elizabeth's ascension to the throne and her relationship with Prime Minister Winston Churchill. It also introduces the character of Prince Philip, who would go on to become the Duke of Edinburgh. The second season, which aired in 2017, focuses on the Suez Crisis and the Queen's relationship with her husband, Philip. The third season, which aired in 2019, focuses on the Queen's relationship with Prime Minister Harold Wilson and the Aberfan disaster.
The fourth season, which premiered in 2020, focuses on the Queen's relationship with Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and the Prince of Wales. It also introduces the character of Prince Charles, who would go on to become the heir to the throne. The season also covers the 1981 royal wedding, the Falklands War, and the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
The Crown has been nominated for and won numerous awards, including Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series - Drama, Best Actress - Television Series Drama, and Best Actor - Television Series Drama. It has also been nominated for numerous Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
The series has been a ratings success, with the fourth season being the most-watched series on Netflix in 2020. It has also been a critical success, with many critics praising the performances of the cast and the show's attention to detail and complex characterizations. The series has also been praised for its depiction of the British monarchy and its exploration of the monarchy's influence on the country's politics and culture.