The Crown season 3: First look at Tobias Menzies as Prince Philip

Showrunner Peter Morgan has been recasting roles as the characters get older

Netflix has released its first look at The Crown star Tobias Menzies in character as Prince Philip.

The British actor has replaced Matt Smith as the Duke of Edinburgh in the forthcoming season of the hit series which will enter a new era reflected by its revamped cast, including Olivia Colman and Helena Bonham Carter.

Broadchurch star Colman will appear as Queen Elizabeth II, a role originally played by Claire Foy, while the latter will succeed Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret.

Tobias Menzies has replaced Matt Smith as Prince Philip in 'The Crown' (Netflix)

Showrunner Peter Morgan, who has been recasting roles as the characters get older, has also appointed God's Own Country star Josh O'Connor as Prince Charles. Marion Bailey will play the show's new Queen Mother.

The one casting decision yet to be made is who will play the role of Princess Diana when she appears towards the end of the third season.

​Menzies' TV credits include The Thick of It, Game of Thrones and the Ridley Scott-produced AMC horror series The Terror.

The Crown will return to Netflix in 2019. You can find the first look at Colman in character as Queen Elizabeth here.