Andrew Scott, best known for his role as the villain Moriarty in Sherlock, is rumored to be in talks to join The Crown as the former Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Reports revealed that the actor has been approached for the role with sources saying that it's the most anticipated casting of the fifth season. Apparently, the creators of The Crown want someone as "adaptable" as Scott, who could be both charming and intimidating much like the former prime minister's persona.
The presence of Blair, who was elected the British prime minister in 1997, in the series is expected to come at the final episodes but he will be an important figure in The Crown season 6. However, Scott could likely turn down the offer as he has other commitments, according to Metro. The show also faced a similar dilemma with Dominic West, who will play Prince Charles and take over for Josh O'Connor but the actor has reshuffled his work schedule to be able to join the Netflix royal drama.
Meanwhile, The Crown season 5 has set the beginning of production in July in London. Crew members are reportedly back at Elstree Studio to prepare the set before principal photography begins with the cast.
The new season will have plenty of new faces since the main cast has been replaced. Queen Elizabeth will be portrayed by Imelda Staunton and she will be facing off with Elizabeth Debicki as the new Princess Diana. Also joining the cast are Lesley Manville as Princess Margaret and Jonathan Pryce as Prince Philip. It is understood that a teenage Prince William and a pre-teen Prince Harry will also be cast.
The Crown season 5 will tackle the early 1990s until the death of Diana. It will also focus on many significant moments in Queen Elizabeth's life. In particular, she has mentioned in a 1992 speech that the year has been her "annus horriblis" (horrible year).
Staunton said that while she's excited to play the new Queen Elizabeth, she's also apprehensive about how the public will take her portrayal since many people still have their own recollection of the events of that decade. The actress is anticipating how people will react and compare her to the actual Queen Elizabeth. Olivia Colman, who played the queen in The Crown season 3 and 4, however, said that she hasn't dared to advice Staunton on how to play the role since she believes the veteran actress will do an even better job.
Netflix has not yet set a schedule for the release of The Crown season 5. Given the production work, the show could drop on the streaming platform at the end of 2022.
