In a remarkable celebration of The Crown‘s seven-year reign on Netflix that began airing in 2016, the cast gathered in London to bid farewell to the groundbreaking series ahead of its final six episodes dropping on December 14.
The Royal Festival Hall set the stage for a star-studded event on Tuesday, December 5, with luminaries from both the current and past seasons gracing the occasion.
Among the constellation of stars like Elizabeth Debicki, Imelda Staunton, Emma Corrin, Olivia Colman, and Meg Bellamy, Gillian Anderson stole the spotlight with her enchanting presence on the red carpet.
The 55-year-old actress, renowned for portraying Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in The Crown, turned heads in a captivating black ensemble that redefined the classic Little Black Dress (LBD).
Gillian Anderson wearing a black midi-dress from Monique Lhuillier’s Spring 2024 collection at the celebration of The Crown finale held at the Royal Festive Hall in London, England on December 5, 2023 (Credit: Steve Vas / Future Image / Cover Images)
Anderson’s sartorial choice for the evening was a testament to sophistication and allure, featuring a Monique Lhuillier creation from the Filipino fashion designer’s Spring 2024 collection.
Her black midi-dress comprised a sheer polka-dot overlay on the bodice that added a touch of sultriness to the ensemble, perfectly complemented by a form-fitting corset that accentuated her tiny waist.
The flared silhouette of the matching tulle skirt exuded an air of sophistication, creating a harmonious balance between allure and refinement.
Anderson elevated her petite frame with black sky-high stilettos heels, adding a touch of glamour without overshadowing the elegance of her outfit.
Gillian Anderson slipping into a pair of black sky-high stilettos for a touch of understated glamour (Credit: Abaca Press / INSTARimages)
Completing the noir-inspired look were the Sex Education star‘s accessories – a small black clutch bag and simple dangly earrings, a matching ring, and a chunky diamond bracelet.
Walking the red carpet with an understated yet captivating makeup look, her blonde locks were swept to one side, framing her face and allowing the sheer polka-dot top to take center stage.
Gillian Anderson’s beauty look consisted of minimal makeup, blonde locks swept to one side, and simple dangly earrings (Credit: Steve Vas / Future Image / Cover Images)
Anderson’s Unexpected Casting as Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher
Gillian Anderson’s portrayal of Margaret Thatcher, the former prime minister of the United Kingdom, may have initially raised eyebrows.
Still, on the red carpet, Piper Maru Klotz’s mom appreciated the unexpected casting choice by The Crown’s creator-showrunner, Peter Morgan.
Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher in the historical drama television series The Crown (Credit: Netflix)
In an interview with Variety, Anderson shared her perspective on the unconventional selection, stating, “I wasn’t [offended] because I understood what he meant. I understood what aspect of myself he might be reminded of Thatcher in in a way.”
She noted, “When you’re an actor, if there’s something that on the outside seems like it’s the antithesis of — or like it would be a strange thing — for somebody to see, it does feel like a compliment.”
Reflecting on her role experience, Anderson said, “I had so much fun.”