‘The Crown’ Season 2 Spoilers: Netflix Royal Drama Puts Emphasis on Philip’s Life, Charles’ Role in Elizabeth II’s Reign; Incoming Seasons to Feature Diana

‘The Crown’ season 2 is set to follow Philip and his backstory as well as Charles’ role in Elizabeth II’s reign. Meanwhile, it was revealed that incoming seasons will feature Diana heavily as she becomes one of the series’ main characters.

According to People.com, season 2 of Netflix’s biopic drama web television series based on the early reign of Queen Elizabeth II in the United Kingdom will put heavier emphasis on Prince Philip’s life as well as Prince Charles’ role as heir to the throne.

Creator and writer Peter Morgan revealed, “We start to focus on Charles as a young boy and his education, and on Philip and his back story.” The second season is currently in production. Cast and crew recently filmed in South Africa for scenes depicting Prince Philip’s Commonwealth tour, one that lasted for several months.

Matt Smith is set to return as Queen Elizabeth II’s husband Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. He is joined by Claire Foy as the Queen herself, Vanessa Kirby as Elizabeth’s younger sister Princess Margaret, Eileen Atkins as Elizabeth’s grandmother Queen Mary, Alex Jennings as Duke Edward, Ben Miles as Peter Townsend, Jared Harris as King George VI, and Victoria Hamilton as Queen Elizbeth the Queen Mother.

Executive producer Suzanne Mackie added, “We glance backward to Philip’s childhood and his upbringing, and how that might have impacted him as a man, a father and as Prince Consort — which is fascinating.”

It was previously reported that the next seasons will bid farewell to the current main cast members. Foy admitted during an interview with Vulture that the series will undergo a recast following season 2. The 32-year old English actress said, “Well, after two seasons, that’s it. I’m gone. They’re getting rid of all of us.”

She continued, “I don’t how they’re planning on doing it, but they’re such an incredible bunch of directors and producers that it’s gonna be different and exciting. It’ll be original. I can’t wait to see where it goes. I’m so honored to have been involved at this stage.”

Meanwhile, Morgan revealed that future seasons will feature Princess Diana – specifically her meeting with Prince Charles in 1977 as well as their 1981 wedding and subsequent marriage. According to Vanity Fair, Diana will be introduced toward the end of Season 3. She is set to become one of the series’ main characters by seasons 4 and 5.

‘The Crown’ season 2 is expected to be released by Netflix sometime in 2017.