Veteran actress Alex Kingston has revealed she was brutally rejected for a role in Netflix's hit series The Crown, but her response to the snub is nothing short of inspirational.
The 60-year-old British star, best known for her roles in ER and Doctor Who, disclosed that she actively pursued a part in the royal drama but was turned down by producers.
A Message of Defiance
Rather than being discouraged, Kingston delivered a powerful message about the industry's attitude toward mature actresses. "I'm too old now to play the Queen," she stated matter-of-factly, highlighting the limited opportunities for women of her age in television.
The actress didn't mince words when discussing the entertainment industry's obsession with youth. "They don't want to see an old woman on television unless she's the grandmother or the crazy neighbour," Kingston remarked during her appearance on the podcast How To Be 60.
Career Reflections and Resilience
Kingston's career spans decades, with memorable performances on both sides of the Atlantic. Her role as Dr. Elizabeth Corday in the medical drama ER made her a household name in the US, while British audiences know her as River Song in Doctor Who.
The rejection from The Crown hasn't dimmed her passion for acting. Instead, it's fueled her determination to challenge industry norms and advocate for better representation of women in their later years.
The Bigger Picture
Kingston's experience reflects a broader issue in entertainment where talented, experienced actresses find themselves sidelined as they age. Her defiant stance serves as both a critique and a call to action for producers and casting directors to reconsider their approach to mature female characters.
"I'm not going to disappear quietly," Kingston asserted, making it clear that she intends to continue fighting for substantial roles that do justice to women of all ages.
