IMELDA Staunton has confirmed The Crown season 5 will be released in November next year as she made her ‘first address’ as Queen Elizabeth II.
The star will be the third version of the reigning monarch in the biopic series, with the entire cast replaced as part of a time jump rotation.
She will continue to play the role through to the show’s end, which will bring the characters up to a more modern day.
As part of Netflix’s huge TUDUM event, Imelda noted the Queens before her as she sat at a desk displaying their photographs, updating fans on what’s to come for the beloved series.
Appearing regal in her approach as she spoke to the camera, she said: “Hello, I’m Imelda Staunton, and I’m currently on the set of The Crown, where we have just begun filming season five.
“I’m delighted to be here, inheriting the role of Queen Elizabeth from two outstanding actresses. Most recently, the wonderful Olivia Colman, and who could forget the actress who originated the part, Claire Foy.”
“I will do my utmost to maintain the very high standard that they set,” the actress continued. “Hopefully I look calm, collected and capable. My stomach, meanwhile, is doing somersaults.
“On behalf of the cast and crew, we look forward to bringing you the next season of The Crown, in November, 2022.”
British icon Imelda is best known for her dramatic roles including Vera Drake and Pride. But to many, she’s best known as the vicious Dolores Umbridge in the Harry Potter franchise.
Most recently, she was seen in Apple TV’s Trying, playing the ditzy but kind-hearted care worker helping a couple adopt a child.
In her new role in The Crown, Imelda will be joined by Jonathan Pryce as Prince Philip, Dominic West as Prince Charles, and Elizabeth Debicki as Princess Diana.
It is not confirmed, but expected that the series will pick up in 1992 – dubbed the ‘annus horribilus’ for the Royal family due to a number of scandals and divorces.
It’s also expected that Princes Diana’s death in August 1997 will be part of the storyline.
The Crown seasons 1 to 4 are available now on Netflix.
