The Crown Season 4 continues to offer a dramatic and historical portrayal of the British royal family. This season is particularly significant as it introduces two pivotal figures: Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Princess Diana, two powerful women who drastically shaped the course of history during the 1980s. The season focuses on their relationships with Queen Elizabeth II and their individual struggles with power, duty, and identity.
Overview
Season 4 of The Crown covers the period from 1979 to 1990, with a focus on the monarchy’s relationship with political power and social changes. The rise of the “Iron Lady,” Margaret Thatcher, and the tumultuous marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana provide both dramatic and emotional tension. It explores the consequences of decisions made within the royal family, their impact on the country, and the deep personal cost of maintaining the monarchy.
Why Watch The Crown Season 4?
- Introduction of Iconic Characters: Olivia Colman returns as Queen Elizabeth II, and we are introduced to two new game-changing characters: Margaret Thatcher (played by Gillian Anderson) and Princess Diana (Emma Corrin). These portrayals bring a fresh, gripping dynamic to the series.
- Political and Personal Struggles: The season explores Queen Elizabeth’s complex relationship with Prime Minister Thatcher, a woman who doesn’t always align with the monarchy’s traditional values. It also delves deep into the tumultuous marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, filled with heartbreak and public scrutiny.
- Historical Relevance: Season 4 covers many significant historical events, including the Falklands War, the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, and the growing tension between the monarchy and the government.
- Powerful Performances: The cast continues to shine, especially with standout performances from Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher and Emma Corrin as Princess Diana. Their portrayals of these iconic figures bring the historical drama to life in ways that are both empathetic and truthful.
- Emotional Depth: Season 4 dives into the personal lives of the royal family, especially Prince Charles and Princess Diana, offering a heartfelt look into their struggles. This season also explores themes of power, duty, sacrifice, and the price of being in the public eye.
Key Characters in Season 4
- Queen Elizabeth II (Olivia Colman): As the queen continues her reign through challenging times, she faces growing opposition from political figures like Margaret Thatcher and the struggles within her family, particularly with the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
- Margaret Thatcher (Gillian Anderson): The first female prime minister of the United Kingdom, Thatcher’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth is tense, marked by political disagreements and differing views on the role of the monarchy.
- Princess Diana (Emma Corrin): The portrayal of Princess Diana is central to this season, showcasing her entrance into the royal family, her marriage to Prince Charles, and the emotional struggles she faces as the world watches.
- Prince Charles (Josh O’Connor): As Charles grapples with his role as heir to the throne, his marriage to Diana continues to fall apart, leading to emotional turmoil and public scrutiny.
- Prince Philip (Tobias Menzies): Prince Philip remains a key figure in the royal family, providing support for Queen Elizabeth and navigating the challenges of his own role and relationship with his children.
Season Highlights
- Margaret Thatcher’s Rise to Power: The season delves into the political relationship between Queen Elizabeth and Margaret Thatcher, showcasing how their differing views on issues such as the Falklands War, the economy, and the role of the monarchy tested their relationship.
- The Wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana: The fairy tale wedding turns into a tragedy as the cracks in their marriage start to show. The portrayal of their relationship is both heart-wrenching and captivating.
- The Falklands War: This war is an essential moment in British history, and the season examines how Queen Elizabeth and her government navigated the national crisis and its effect on their personal and public lives.
- Princess Diana’s Struggles: As Diana becomes the most adored figure in the world, her personal struggles, mental health challenges, and difficult marriage with Prince Charles are explored in great depth.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
The Crown Season 4 is one of the most highly anticipated seasons of the series. With the introduction of characters like Margaret Thatcher and Princess Diana, it brings fresh drama, conflict, and intrigue. The season’s exploration of the political landscape of the 1980s, combined with the personal struggles of the royal family, makes it an intense and emotional watch. The performances, especially by Gillian Anderson and Emma Corrin, are nothing short of exceptional, making this season a must-watch for history and drama fans alike.
Conclusion
Season 4 of The Crown masterfully captures the personal and political challenges of the British royal family during the 1980s. The season focuses on key figures and events, with an incredible cast and brilliant storytelling. It brings historical moments to life while providing insight into the lives of those at the heart of the monarchy. The tensions between the monarchy, politics, and the personal lives of the royal family members make this season a captivating experience from start to finish.
