In Netflix’s hit series The Crown, Princess Diana has been a constant source of fascination and intrigue. As the eagerly awaited Season 6 unfolds, fans are treated to a portrayal of the beloved Princess like never before, courtesy of the exceptionally talented Elizabeth Debicki. With the first four episodes already streaming and the final six set to release on December 14, it’s safe to say that Debicki has not just stepped into the iconic role; she has embraced it with a level of authenticity and brilliance that has garnered widespread acclaim.
Challenges and Triumphs
When Elizabeth Debicki was cast as Princess Diana for Seasons 5 and 6 of The Crown, she faced the daunting task of following in the footsteps of Emma Corrin’s Golden Globe-winning performance in Season 4. However, Debicki’s portrayal has proven to be a triumph in its own right, earning her nominations for major awards after Season 5. The response to her Princess Diana suggests that she has not only met but exceeded the expectations placed upon her.
A Striking Resemblance
One of the standout features of Debicki’s performance is her striking physical resemblance to the real Princess Diana. The Crown’s unique casting approach, employing actors of different ages to play characters over time, has paid off brilliantly. Despite being 30 at the time of casting, Debicki flawlessly embodies Princess Diana from her early 30s to the tragic events that unfolded at the age of 36. A short blonde wig, skilled makeup, and meticulous costume design contribute to Debicki almost disappearing on screen, transforming into the People’s Princess with an uncanny resemblance.
Height and Presence
Surprisingly, Debicki’s towering height of 6 foot 3, a full five inches taller than Princess Diana, adds an unexpected but delightful dimension to the portrayal. While Princess Diana’s height played a role in the public perception of her relationship with Prince Charles, Debicki’s stature allows her to command attention on screen. The height difference between Debicki and Dominic West, who portrays Prince Charles, adds a touch of humor, giving the characters a dynamic visual presence.
Iconic Outfits Recreated
The Crown has been lauded for its attention to detail, and Season 5 is no exception. Costumes designed by Amy Roberts meticulously replicate some of Princess Diana’s most famous outfits, including the iconic “revenge dress.” Debicki effortlessly steps into these outfits, breathing life into moments that became part of Princess Diana’s enduring legacy as a style icon.
Balancing Public and Private Personas
One of the challenges in portraying Princess Diana lies in capturing both her public and private personas. Debicki navigates this duality with finesse, portraying the isolation and separation Diana felt from the public eye. Despite being constantly photographed and scrutinized, Diana was known for her private nature. The Crown’s Season 5 gives Debicki the opportunity to showcase this complexity, highlighting the toll being a public figure took on the beloved Princess.
Mannerisms and Physicality
Debicki’s performance extends beyond mere physical resemblance. Her portrayal is marked by distinctive mannerisms that evolve with Diana’s age and experiences. From moments of shyness and insecurity to subtle changes in demeanor, Debicki’s choices breathe authenticity into the character. The Crown’s Season 5 showcases Diana’s journey with emotional depth, capturing the nuances of her evolving personality.
Authentic Voice and Accent
Accurately capturing Princess Diana’s voice is a crucial aspect of any portrayal, and Elizabeth Debicki rises to the challenge. Despite being Australian, Debicki worked extensively with The Crown’s dialect coach, William Conacher, to perfect Diana’s posh British accent and unique speech patterns. This attention to detail adds another layer of authenticity to Debicki’s portrayal, ensuring that Princess Diana’s voice is not just heard but felt in every scene.
Ending Notes
As we delve into Season 6 of The Crown, it’s clear that Elizabeth Debicki’s portrayal of Princess Diana is a triumph of talent, dedication, and authenticity. From her physical resemblance to Diana’s iconic outfits, mannerisms, and the nuances of her public and private personas, Debicki has not just played the role; she has become the People’s Princess on screen. With meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Diana’s life, Elizabeth Debicki has, without a doubt, nailed Princess Diana like never before. As we bid farewell to The Crown, we can do so knowing that Debicki’s portrayal has left an indelible mark on the legacy of the beloved Princess.
