Do the British Royal Family Watch 'The Crown' on Netflix?

The question of whether the members of the British Royal Family, specifically Queen Elizabeth, watch Netflix's The Crown, a series that portrays personalized behind-the-scenes depictions of the monarchy, is a subject of speculation and curiosity. Many assume that the realistic and sometimes controversial portrayals would intrigue or even irritate the actual royal family. However, the truth is more nuanced.

Historical Context and Sensitivity

Early historical references to Queen Elizabeth portray her reign in a way that is more entertaining than informative. These portrayals often take creative liberties with historical accuracy, leading to mixed reception among those who value historical integrity.

For example, Princess Diana, portrayed in a manner that is vastly different from her real self, and Prince William and Prince Harry's dialogues and attitudes have been criticized for their inaccuracy. This led to a general perception that the show's approach to the royal family is incomplete and often ridiculous, which explains why some members of the royal family have an unfavorable opinion of it.

Official Response and Family Attitudes

The late Queen Elizabeth's opinion on the show is particularly telling. Jean Thompson, someone familiar with the royal family, recalls the Queen's disdain for the series. When asked about the show, she famously said, 'I would NEVER say that.' This statement alone crystallizes the Queen's and by extension, her family's perspective on The Crown.

Behind-the-Scenes Insight and Entertainment Value

While the royal family is not known to frequent binge-watching on series like The Crown, they do possess a deep understanding of the show's content. Since many members of the royal staff are knowledgeable about the series, it is plausible that details from the show are shared with the royal family. However, it's important to note that the royals are more interested in the factual and real aspects of their daily lives.

Given the scrutiny they face daily, the royal family generally prefers not to spend time watching shows that portray imagined scenarios of life within the monarchy. Unlike the rest of us, who may need to watch such series to see an insider's view of royal life, the royals themselves already experience these events firsthand, making the narrative of The Crown largely redundant for them.

Moreover, the royal family has a sense of humor, as evidenced by their enjoyment of ads by The Body Shop. These quirky commercials offer a glimpse into their entertainment tastes and illustrate that, while they are pragmatic, they do have moments of levity, just like anyone else.

Conclusion

In summary, the British Royal Family's approach to shows like The Crown is multifaceted. While their official response is largely unrecorded, personal opinions like the Queen's are clear. The royal family is not extensively involved in watching narrative series about their lives but rather have a comprehensive understanding of the show's contents through their staff. Instead of seeking entertainment from fictionalized accounts, the royals find more value in their real-world experiences and the insights they gain from their daily lives, marking a stark contrast between their actual lives and the fantastical depictions in The Crown.