Claire Foy Compares The Crown to a Blockbuster Film
In a recent interview with Radio Times, Claire Foy, who portrayed Queen Elizabeth II in the early seasons of Netflix’s The Crown, drew an intriguing parallel between her role in the series and a blockbuster film. The 41-year-old actress, whose career has seen a significant transformation since her breakthrough, spoke candidly about the impact of the show on her professional life.
A Life-Changing Role
Foy, who played the young Queen Elizabeth II in the first two seasons of The Crown, described the experience as nothing short of life-changing. “I’d been working for almost 10 years when I made it, but nobody knew who I was. It was like being in a blockbuster film,” she shared. The attention and recognition that followed her portrayal of the monarch opened doors to opportunities she had never imagined.
“Afterwards, I got opportunities I’d never had before. It’s like the biggest promotion you can imagine,” Foy added, highlighting how the role elevated her career to new heights. The series, which delves into the life of the British royal family, became a global phenomenon, and Foy’s performance was widely praised, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Beyond The Crown: Diverse Roles and Challenges
Despite the immense success of The Crown, Foy expressed that she doesn’t feel defined by the role. “I don’t think it’s a double-edged sword. I doubt Olivia Newton-John hated being known for Grease—I bet she loved it!” she said. “If I had just done The Crown and never worked again, that would be one thing. But I don’t feel any pressure to be anything for anyone else, really. I’m just doing my job.”
Foy, who also played Tudor Queen Anne Boleyn in the TV drama Wolf Hall, acknowledged the potential for being typecast as a regal figure. “There aren’t that many queens and I did two of them! I think any more would be weird,” she joked. However, she emphasized her versatility as an actress, noting that the goal is to be offered broader roles as her career progresses.
The Thrill and Challenge of H Is for Hawk
Foy’s latest movie, H Is for Hawk, sees her take on the role of Helen Macdonald, a woman who finds solace in caring for a Goshawk bird after the death of her father. The actress admitted to being nervous about handling the birds, given their reputation for being difficult to manage.
“I was nervous! Goshawks are the most difficult birds to handle. Our bird trainers Rose and Lloyd Buck said, ‘Claire will get footed,’ which is basically when the bird claws you, ‘because a goshawk has never not footed a falconer,’” Foy recounted. Despite the warnings, the team managed to complete the shoot safely, with Foy eventually getting “footed” only in the last shot of the film.
“I did get footed, but only in the last shot of the whole thing. We used five birds and it was by Jess, the least likely one. It was her little ‘see you later’,” Foy said, adding a touch of humor to the experience. The role required a great deal of preparation and dedication, but Foy’s commitment to her craft shone through in the final product.
A Career Defined by Versatility
Claire Foy’s journey in the acting world has been one of continuous growth and exploration. From her early days in the industry to her portrayal of iconic historical figures, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and excel in diverse roles. Her recent work in H Is for Hawk further cements her reputation as a versatile and dedicated actress.
As she continues to take on new challenges and projects, Foy remains grounded and focused on her craft. “You get offered what people think you’re capable of. The goal as you get older is for that to be broader, not narrower,” she said, reflecting on the evolving nature of her career. With each role, Claire Foy continues to captivate audiences and prove that her talents extend far beyond the royal dramas that first brought her into the spotlight.
The Legacy of The Crown
The Crown’s success has been a defining moment for both the series and its leading cast, including Claire Foy. The show’s meticulous attention to detail and its exploration of historical events have resonated with viewers worldwide. Foy’s portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II was particularly noteworthy, as she brought a sense of authenticity and depth to the character.
“The Crown” has not only been a blockbuster in the traditional sense but also a cultural phenomenon that has sparked conversations about royalty, history, and the media’s portrayal of historical figures. Foy’s comparison of the series to a blockbuster film underscores its impact and the scale of the production.
Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations
As Claire Foy looks to the future, she remains open to new opportunities and challenges. Her experience in The Crown and H Is for Hawk has equipped her with a wealth of skills and insights that she hopes to bring to future projects. Whether it’s taking on more diverse roles or exploring different genres, Foy is eager to continue growing as an actress.
“I’m just doing my job,” she reiterated, emphasizing her passion for acting and her commitment to delivering compelling performances. With a career that has already seen remarkable achievements, Claire Foy is undoubtedly an actress to watch in the coming years.
