The Crown Season 6 Episode 1 Recap – Persona Non Grata
Summarizing the initial episode of The Crown Season 6, “Persona Non-Grata,” the narrative unfolds with a man walking his dog against the enchanting backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. Set in Paris on August 31, 1997, the audience is taken to the Pont de l’Alma tunnel, where a black Mercedes crashes dramatically. The story then backtracks eight weeks to the early summer of 1997.
Princess Diana (played by Elizabeth Debicki) is introduced, cruising with Prince William (Rufus Kampa) in her convertible, blasting Chumbawumba. The duo is en route to Prime Minister Tony Blair’s (Bertie Carvel) residence. Blair discloses Diana’s intent to the indifferent Queen Elizabeth (Imelda Staunton) – Diana wishes to utilize her talents in a government role, aspiring to serve as a public servant if deemed irrelevant to the royal family.
However, the Queen dismisses the idea, asserting the importance of complete commitment. Despite acknowledging Diana’s perpetual connection as the mother of the future King, the Queen remains cold, emphasizing the distinction between being officially in or out of the royal family.
The Queen extends this formality to her son, Prince Charles (Dominic West), refusing to attend the birthday celebration he’s organizing for Camilla Parker-Bowles (Olivia Williams). Despite Charles’ evident happiness with Camilla, the Queen remains unmoved, questioning the significance of her attendance. The emotional disconnect between the Queen and her son becomes palpable, as Charles seeks approval and understanding that the Queen seems reluctant to provide.
