The Mail on Sunday reports that the House star is being lined up to play the Duke of Edinburgh in the hit Netflix series, following Matt Smith’s departure – the Doctor Who star played the younger version of Prince Philip in the previous two seasons.
Creator Peter Morgan – who has already announced that Olivia Colman, 44, will play the Queen, taking over from Claire Foy – is said to be ‘very keen’ on Laurie to portray Philip in middle age, according to the publication.
‘Hugh’s name has been swirling around for a long while now and it hasn’t yet stopped – he is the sort of big name that would draw in viewers. He and Olivia were formidable on The Night Manager and bosses of The Crown would love to recreate that,’ spilled a source.
‘Other actors have been considered, but Hugh is viewed as the perfect choice.’
Helena Bonham Carter is also set to play Princess Margaret in the next series.
