The Crown creator addresses fan backlash over leaked season six scene | Spoilers

The iconic Netflix series "The Crown" stirred significant controversy among fans after it was revealed that Princess Diana would be depicted as a ghost in its upcoming sixth season. This revelation left many viewers deeply unsettled, considering it a potentially tasteless and insensitive portrayal. The role of Diana, portrayed by actress Elizabeth Debicki, raised concerns about the depiction of her character following her tragic death. In response to the backlash, the show's creator, Peter Morgan, recently shared his rationale behind including this segment in the royal drama.

A Unique Perspective on Diana

Peter Morgan offered insights into his creative decision, clarifying that the intention was never to depict Diana as a traditional ghost. Instead, he aimed to represent her as a vivid figure in the imagination of both Prince Charles and the Queen. In an interview with Variety magazine, he explained, "I never imagined it as Diana’s 'ghost' in the traditional sense. It was her continuing to live vividly in the minds of those she has left behind. Diana was unique, and I suppose that’s what inspired me to find a unique way of representing her. She deserved special treatment narratively."


Morgan's statement suggests that he was motivated by a desire to honor Diana's memory and significance. By presenting her in this distinctive manner, he aimed to capture her enduring impact on those who knew her, especially within the royal family.

Controversy Surrounding Diana's Portrayal

The controversial portrayal of Princess Diana's death in "The Crown" had previously sparked outrage among fans and critics alike. Some viewers deemed it distressing and criticized the show's creators for what they considered a disturbing representation of her tragic accident.

The depiction included scenes of medics attempting to save Diana in a blood-soaked operating room, portraying the traumatic moments following her accident. Additionally, Elizabeth Debicki was shown lying in a coffin to provide viewers with a visual representation of the princess deceased in an open casket.

Such scenes led to strong reactions from the audience, with Simone Simmonds, a friend of Diana's, describing them as "sick" and "ghoulish." She expressed her dismay that Netflix had chosen to include these distressing moments.

An Artistic Perspective

Morgan's clarification regarding the portrayal of Diana as a non-traditional "ghost" suggests that he approached the character's representation from a unique artistic perspective. By emphasizing Diana's lasting presence in the minds of those she touched, the creator aimed to pay tribute to her uniqueness and the indelible impact she left on the royal family and the world.

As "The Crown" continues to explore the intricate tapestry of royal history, it remains a series that elicits strong emotions and responses from viewers. The decision to depict Princess Diana in such a distinctive manner reflects the complex nature of storytelling, especially when dealing with real historical events and figures.

FAQs

Is Crown based on a true story?
Indeed, The Crown is firmly rooted in reality. Every character, event, and dramatic moment draws inspiration from the actual history of the British Royal Family. For instance, Olivia Colman portrays Queen Elizabeth II during her middle-aged years in Seasons 3 and 4 of The Crown, while Gillian Anderson takes on the role of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Is Season 6 the last for The Crown?
The much-anticipated historical drama, The Crown, is set to make its grand return for the sixth and final season on November 16. This season, the episodes are divided into two parts, with the first four scheduled to premiere on the 16th, while the remaining six are set to drop on December 14.