Claire Foy is making a surprise return to The Crown in series four

It has been reported that Claire Foy will return to her role as Queen Elizabeth II in series four of The Crown.

The Emmy-Winning actress played Her Majesty in the first two seasons of the Netflix smash hit, before passing the role on to Olivia Colman.

The third series of the drama, based on the lives of the British royal family, was released earlier this month, but crews and cast are already underway with filming the fourth.

Claire has been spotted filming scenes for the upcoming series, but don’t worry if Olivia Colman’s Queen is your favourite, as it looks like Claire will only appear in flash backs.

It seems that the actress was seen recreating what looks like the Queen’s 21st birthday speech.

This follows news that Olivia’s replacement, who will take on the role as the monarch in series five and six, is already being lined up.

READ MORE: The Queen’s former aide criticised The Crown for suggesting she had an affair

According to the Daily Mail, Harry Potter star Imelda Staunton, 63, will take over from the Oscar winner to play Her Royal Highness (opens in new tab) in her 60s and onwards.

Meanwhile, the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, is reportedly keen to see herself portrayed in the show by Poldark actress and fellow red head Eleanor Tomlinson.

Prince Andrew’s ex wife is also believed to want Oscar winner Julianne Moore to play an older version of herself.

A source told The Sun, “Sarah has really enjoyed the series — even if it hasn’t gone down well with all members of the royal family.

“She’s told several people close to her she really loves the idea of Eleanor after watching Poldark. In later life, she’s keen on Julianne Moore.

“These days something as big as The Crown actually matters — for a whole new generation that’s how they will know who the Duchess actually is.”