L
Life Cast

Where You've Seen The Cast Of The Crown Before

Author

Amelia Brooks

Published Jul 31, 2026

Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, is a dazzlingly multifaceted character. Sister to the queen, her wild actions and statements cause no end of controversy. Vanessa Kirby plays the character in Seasons 1 and 2, while Helena Bonham Carter takes over for Seasons 3 and 4. Lesley Manville, who portrays this poignant figure in Seasons 5 and 6, is the last performer to step into the princess' shoes.

A widely celebrated actor, Manville's filmography is studded with some of the past few decades' best films. She's enjoyed roles in high-profile movies like "Phantom Thread," "Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris," and "Another Year." On the small screen, she's played leads in successful series including "Mum" and "River." Younger viewers might recognize her as Flittle, a feather-headed fairy from "Maleficent" and its sequel, "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil." Notably, that role puts her together with former Queen Elizabeth II actress Imelda Staunton — and it's not the only one. Staunton and Manville also co-starred in the celebrated drama "Vera Drake."