The Crown season 3: Paul Bettany 'in talks' to succeed Matt Smith as Prince Philip in Netflix drama

Helena Bonham Carter is reportedly 'all but confirmed' to play Princess Margaret

Paul Bettany is reportedly in talks to play Prince Phillip in the next two seasons of Netflix drama series The Crown.

According to journalist Baz Bamigboye, the British actor - who will next be seen in superhero mashup Avengers: Infinity War - is said to be nearing a deal to overtake Matt Smith in the role alongside Helena Bonham Carter who is expected to succeed Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret.

The only confirmed cast member is Olivia Colman who will play the role of Queen Elizabeth II now Claire Foy's tenure has come to an end.

With a third and fourth season yet to receive the official greenlight, early production is reportedly underway.

Speaking about his decision to recast the roles as the characters get older, Morgan said: “You can’t ask someone to act middle-aged. Someone has to bring their own fatigue to it. The feelings we all have as 50-year-olds are different than the feelings we all have as 30-year-olds.“

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