Jonathan Pryce, a seasoned actor with a career spanning decades, found himself in a role he had been preparing for his entire life when he was cast as Prince Philip in the hit Netflix series, The Crown. Pryce, who had watched the Queen’s Coronation in 1953 at the age of six, felt a deep connection to the character he was portraying. Despite initially seeing Prince Philip as a stoic figure walking behind his wife, Queen Elizabeth, Pryce soon discovered the depth and complexity of the man behind the public persona.
Delving into the extensive research provided by The Crown’s research department, Pryce uncovered a vibrant, funny, and intelligent side to Prince Philip that he had not previously known. He relished the opportunity to bring this multi-dimensional character to life on screen, finding it both educative and enjoyable. Pryce’s portrayal of Prince Philip in the final two seasons of The Crown showcased a nuanced performance, highlighting the duke’s relationships with his family, particularly his grandsons William and Harry.
One of the most intriguing dynamics Pryce explored on screen was the relationship between Prince Philip and his son, Prince Charles. Despite historical accounts of tension between the two, Pryce found playing opposite Dominic West’s Charles to be a delightful experience. He relished the opportunity to inject more of Philip’s acerbic wit into their interactions, adding depth to their on-screen dynamic.
As Pryce reflected on his own experiences as a father and grandfather, he found parallels between his own relationships and those of Prince Philip. He noted the complexities of family dynamics and the desire to impart wisdom to the next generation. Pryce’s performance as Philip evolved to showcase a more reflective and compassionate side of the character, highlighting the growth and maturity that comes with age.
Beyond his role in The Crown, Pryce’s career continues to flourish, with recent Emmy Award nominations for his performances in both The Crown and the Apple TV+ series Slow Horses. Despite earlier thoughts of retirement, Pryce remains as ambitious and dedicated to his craft as ever, relishing the freedom that comes with age. He credits legendary acting teacher Lee Strasberg for instilling in him the importance of staying true to his craft and embracing the challenges that come with each role.
As Pryce looks to the future, he remains excited about upcoming projects, including The Thursday Murder Club movie alongside Helen Mirren. With a blend of humor, drama, and a touch of dancing, Pryce continues to captivate audiences with his versatile performances. There is no sign of slowing down for this seasoned actor, whose passion for storytelling and dedication to his craft shine through in every role he takes on.
