Heavy is the head that wears the crown—especially when it means portraying Queen Elizabeth II, one of the longest-serving monarchs in history.
Over the years, viewers have gotten more than a few nuanced glimpses into the captivating life of the royal, who—before her passing on Sept. 8 at age 96, made history as the longest-reigning British monarch and the longest-serving female head of state in history with 70 years on the throne.
Most recently, for Netflix’s hit series, The Crown, actress Claire Foy took on the role of the Queen in both the first and second seasons, with Olivia Colman portraying her in both the third and fourth. When the series returns later this year for the fifth season, Emmy nominated star Imelda Staunton will sit on the throne as the British ruler.
Other stars who have donned Her Majesty’s regal regalia include Helen Mirren, Emma Thompson, Sarah Gadon and more.
