Netflix's 'The Crown' The New 'Downton Abbey'? Queen Elizabeth Drama Could Piss Off Royals, Says Claire Foy

Netflix's "The Crown" is about to launch on Friday, Nov. 4, at the streaming site and the show, which has been written by Peter Morgan, is poised to become the new "Downton Abbey." Charting the life of a young Queen Elizabeth, who is played by Claire Foy, it is based on true events mixed with dramatic re-telling. The actress believes that "The Crown" could potentially leave the royals "pissed off."

Comparing similarities between "The Crown" and "Downton Abbey" couldn't be helped as both shows are about British aristocracy. According to The Star, "The Crown" even has a similar opening theme to "Downton Abbey."

Since it is a period piece, the costumes and the set designs also mirror the same elements as "Downton Abbey." But the difference between "The Crown" and the other show is that the new Netflix series has politics as its core theme. In this manner, "The Crown" might be likened to "House of Cards."

Peter Morgan told Express that he's flattered about the comparison, especially since "Downton Abbey" received critics praise and a lot of awards. But the writer insisted "The Crown" is different. "'Downton Abbey' was concerned with class and this show is concerned with power, it's a completely different subject," the scribe said.

Claire Foy, espousing a young Queen Elizabeth in "The Crown," isn't the least bit worried that the show might offend the royal family. Yet the actress told Time Out it is possible the Windsors might be pissed off about the storytelling on "The Crown." The show's first season provides an intimate look at Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip's early years in marriage. It also highlights the prince's insecurities about his wife becoming the head of the British monarchy.

But the actress said that she's not likely to meet the royal family to tell her off about "The Crown." She's more concerned about the reaction of the viewers. "I could walk down the street and meet someone who could say: 'You're a liar! I hated sitting there watching you!'" Claire Foy told Time Out.

"The Crown" Season 1 will follow a decade of Queen Elizabeth's life as the British royal, wife and mother. Matt Smith will play her husband, Prince Philip, and the show also stars John Lithgow, Jared Harris and Vanessa Kirby. Catch the full first season release on Netflix this Friday, Nov. 4.