‘Grantchester’ actress will play young Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’

The makers of The Crown have announced who’ll be playing Princess Diana in the show.

Netflix’s award-winning period drama tells the story of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.

The third season of The Crown began filming last summer and will see the show’s entire cast being replaced by older actors as the story moves further into the second half of the 20th Century.

The Durrells actor Josh O’Connor has joined the cast as the young Prince Charles and it’s now been confirmed that newcomer Emma Corrin will play Princess Diana in the fourth season.

The English actress may be familiar to British period drama fans for her guest role as Esther Carter in the fourth season of Grantchester.

She’s also starring alongside Keeley Hawes and Keira Knightly in new 1970s Miss World drama Misbehaviour.

Corrin told The Hollywood Reporter: “Beyond excited and honoured to be joining The Crown for its fourth season.

“I have been glued to the show since the first episode and to think I’m now joining this incredibly talented acting family is just surreal.

“Princess Diana was an icon, and her effect on the world remains profound and inspiring. To be given the chance to explore her through Peter Morgan’s writing is the most exceptional opportunity, and I will strive to do her justice!”

The Crown creator and writer Peter Morgan added: “Emma is a brilliant talent who immediately captivated us when she came in for the part of Diana Spencer.

“As well as having the innocence and beauty of a young Diana, she also has, in abundance, the range and complexity to portray an extraordinary woman who went from anonymous teenager to becoming the most iconic woman of her generation.”

Emerald Fennell, best known as Patsy in Call the Midwife, will be playing Charles’ future wife Camilla.

Season 3 will premiere on Netflix around the world this autumn.

Season 4 is due to begin filming later this year and is expected to arrive on Netflix in 2020.

The Crown is available to buy on DVD on Amazon.