“The Crown” is royally screwed.
Props from the popular Netflix series were stolen by thieves in an overnight raid near the set in Doncaster, England, last week.
About $200,00 worth of gemstones, silverware and antiques were taken. One pilfered item was a replica of a rare Fabergé egg that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II’s grandfather, George V, in 1933.
Candelabra, jewelry, a grandfather clock and a birdcage were also among the goods. Police were called to the scene and have been hunting for the robbers.
The regal drama is currently in production for its fifth season, which is set to debut later this year. The 10-episodes will span 1990 until 1997 and feature a new cast taking over the coveted roles of the UK’s royal family.
“The gang managed to gain access to the lorries,” a source told the Sun yesterday.
“[And] break them open and strip them of the lot.
“Producers have an incredible eye for detail and every item was meticulously chosen. To lose the lot is just heartbreaking,” the insider added.
Another source said, “This couldn’t have come at a more frustrating time. Producers are frantically trying to find replacements. But given so many were unique, it won’t be easy.”
The South Yorkshire Police gave more insight into the incident, telling the publication, “It is reported that three vehicles containing props used in film and TV were broken into and a number of items taken. Officers investigated.”
According to weekly publication the Antiques Trade Gazette, some of the items stolen include a replica of the 1897 Imperial Coronation coach egg by Fabergé as well as 12 sets of silver candelabra and seven gold candelabra, a clock face of a William IV grandfather clock, a quantity of Russian religious icons, a 10-piece silver dressing table set and Saint-Louis gilt crystal glassware and decanters.
Actor Dominic West is taking over playing Prince Charles while Elizabeth Debicki is coming in to play an older version of Princess Diana. Imelda Staunton is portraying an aging Queen Elizabeth II, Jonathan Pryce will play Prince Philip and Lesley Manville is taking her turn as Princess Margaret.
“The Crown” halted production in December after eight crew members tested positive for COVID-19. They resumed work in January.
It was reported last November that the royal family could sue Netflix for their portrayals on the show. Friends of the British monarchy, according to the Sun, were allegedly so worried about how the upcoming season would portray the queen, that they “sought legal advice.”
“The advice [their friends] received would also apply to the royal family,” a source claimed to the British outlet.
Experts from Queen Elizabeth’s go-to law firms — Farrer & Co and Harbottle & Lewis — are said to have provided the legal advice, the Sun reported. “Although this is not direct legal advice given to the queen and her family — they have been made aware of this advice,” the source said.