Claire Foy, renowned for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the acclaimed Netflix series “The Crown,” has spoken candidly about the profound impact the role has had on her career. The 41-year-old actress, who has garnered two Emmy awards and a Golden Globe for her performance, reflected on her rising fame during an interview with Radio Times.
Foy recalled her life prior to “The Crown,” noting that she was relatively unknown despite nearly a decade of work in the film and TV industry. She expressed gratitude for the opportunities that followed her landmark role, describing the experience as akin to being part of a blockbuster film. “I got opportunities I’d never had before. It’s like the biggest promotion you can imagine,” she stated, highlighting the transformational effect of the show on her career.
Despite the whirlwind of fame, Foy asserted that she has successfully avoided being typecast, emphasizing that her success with “The Crown” has not limited her artistic choices. She remarked, “I don’t think it’s a double-edged sword,” comparing her experience to that of Olivia Newton-John with “Grease.” Foy feels she has the freedom to pursue diverse roles without the pressure of conforming to others’ expectations, simply focusing on her craft.
Following her turn as the iconic monarch, Foy took on new challenges, starring alongside Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott in the 2023 fantasy drama “All Of Us Strangers.” Her upcoming biographical film, “H Is For Hawk,” features her as Helen Macdonald, an academic navigating grief while attempting to train a goshawk following the death of her father.
Foy candidly described the experience of sudden fame as “alarming” yet “illuminating,” but she has prioritized maintaining her sense of self amid the spotlight. “On the whole, I’ve stayed the same,” she affirmed, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding her humanity and sanity.
Beyond her work in “The Crown,” Foy is also recognized for her roles in the BBC historical drama “Wolf Hall” and “A Very British Scandal.” Furthermore, her film credits include the 2022 drama “Women Talking,” which addresses the harrowing realities faced by women in a religious community grappling with the aftermath of abuse.
Foy’s journey illustrates a promise of resilience and adaptability in the face of fame, positioning her as a versatile talent committed to her craft and personal growth.