Elizabeth Debicki and Emma Corrin reveal their secret weapon

Elizabeth Debicki and Emma Corrin, the actresses who brought Princess Diana to life in different eras of The Crown, recently revealed the surprising secret behind their captivating performances. In a candid interview with Variety's Actors on Actors, the duo discussed the unique preparation process they went through for their roles.

Both actresses requested access to the extensive research material compiled by The Crown's production team. Debicki described receiving “all the binders,” while Corrin said a “big box” of resources landed outside her apartment. This vast archive of information, spanning Diana's life and times, proved invaluable in shaping their portraits.

Corrin admitted to feeling overwhelmed by the volume of the material, but recognized the immense value it offered. “The mechanisms to help you prepare were very extensive and available,” she noted, a resource unlike anything she had encountered in her previous roles.

Debicki, who took on the role for the show's final two seasons, revealed the anxiety she felt in perfecting Diana's distinctive voice. She described it as “music” and worked tirelessly to capture its unique rhythm and cadence.

During this time, Corrin drew on her own experiences as a public figure to embody Diana's mannerisms, particularly the tics that appeared during moments of intense emotional stress. This personal connection allowed him to authentically portray the vulnerability and resilience of the princess.

The Crown, which chronicles the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth II, premiered in 2016 and concluded with its sixth and final season in late 2023. The series has been praised for its meticulous attention to detail and nuanced performances , with Debicki and Corrin's portrayals of Princess Diana proving particularly memorable.