The Crown’s Elizabeth Debicki crowning achievement at the Golden Globes, winning for her touching portrayal of Princess Diana marks the end of an era for Netflix as the streaming service says goodbye to the sweeping historical drama. From its inception in 2016 and its climatic finale in 2023, Peter Morgan encapsulated the nuances of Queen Elizabeth ll and the Windsor family. It was an inside look at the most private family in the world, and simultaneously in full view of society. Great Britain’s longest-reigning monarch had her life phases played by Claire Foy (1947-1964), Olivia Colman (1964-1990), and Imelda Staunton (1991-2005). After six seasons, the series leaves us with a continuing message. Personal sacrifices come at a cost, but if it’s for the betterment of society and others, it’s worth it.
On her 21st birthday, Queen Elizabeth ll dedicated her life to service of the commonwealth, “I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.” Ascending the throne on February 6, 1952, following her father's death, King George VI, her lifelong commitment to duty defined her lifetime of service to the throne.
During periods of despair and mourning, the late Queen was present, consoling her nation like a gentle hand on the shoulder. The throne was a symbol of hope and prosperity. And was a beacon of optimism, as the crown will always prevail, and so shall you.
Small in stature but mighty in power and influence, she epitomized Britain's stiff upper lip mantra. And that’s what the award-winning series beautifully depicted throughout—a dying breed, the greatest generation, just like Queen Elizabeth ll and countless others. She put the woman aside and sacrificed her personal life for 70 years for the goodwill of humanity.
Following Queen Elizabeth's death in 2022, her reign and generation have become a bygone era of what was. A self-righteous society has taken hold, where helping others has become a chore and an obligation, not an expectation.
As the late Queen’s generation dims into the light and The Crown comes to a ceruminous end, her reign illustrates a period of remarkable resilience and defiance against all odds. That personal sacrifices come at a cost but will always outweigh the repudiation of contributions to society.