'The Crown' Cast News: Olivia Colman to Replace Claire Foy in Seasons 3 and 4

By Denise See, Christian Post Contributor Tuesday, October 31, 2017

"The Crown" has found its new Queen Elizabeth II.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Olivia Colman has been tapped to replace Claire Foy as Queen Elizabeth II. Foy has played the role for two seasons, with the second set to debut later this year. But, since the Netflix series follows Elizabeth's life, it was inevitable for the show to cast an older actress as Elizabeth aged.

Colman is set to portray the role for the next two seasons of "The Crown." Like Foy, Colman will be replaced for the final two seasons of the series. Of course, this also means that an older actor will be taking the place of Matt Smith, who portrays Prince Phillip. However, an actor has yet to be cast in the role.

Foy revealed earlier this month that she already knew who would be replacing her. She recently told Vanity Fair that she has been privy to the knowledge for several months. She also revealed that she encouraged Colman to take the part.

"I've known for a long time. I found out many, many months ago, and I was just like, yes, just do it! Whatever happens, don't let her get away. Make her do it," the actress said. "It was to the point where I actually spoke to her on the phone and told her, you have to do it. You have to do it! She's the most extraordinary actress and person in every single way. I love her, so I'm thrilled. I have always loved her. I can't wait to see her in it."

Foy won a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild award for her work in "The Crown." The second season is expected to explore Elizabeth's marriage to Phillip even further, as well as shed some light on the allegations of infidelity against the latter.

"The Crown" season 2 will be released on Friday, Dec. 8 on Netflix.