First look at Imelda Staunton as the Queen in The Crown

Netflix has revealed a glimpse of Imelda Staunton as the Queen in The Crown.

In the first image released of the star, Staunton steps into the role first played by Claire Foy and then Olivia Colman in the series.

Filming of the lavish drama is reported to have started in the UK earlier this month with a new cast making their debuts as members of the royal family.

The first-look of Staunton, 65, shows her portraying the Queen in later life - sporting a mustard blouse and cropped hair.

Netflix described the image as “an early glimpse of our new Queen Elizabeth II”.

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The Crown launched on the streaming platform in November 2019 and has become a fan favourite.

The latest series sees Dominic West taking over from Josh O’Connor as the Prince of Wales, while Elizabeth Debicki will star as Princess Diana, replacing Emma Corrin.

Lesley Manville will take over the role of Princess Margaret from Helena Bonham Carter, Jonathan Pryce will replace Tobias Menzies as the Duke of Edinburgh and Jonny Lee Miller will debut as Prime Minister Sir John Major.

The fifth and sixth instalments will bring the drama into the 21st century.