I am beside myself because we are joined by real life royalty… well almost… on this special episode, it’s the OG queen from Netflix’s The Crown, Claire Foy!

I have been OBSESSED with Claire since she played my all-time favourite queen, Anne Boleyn in the BBC adaption of Wolf Hall but it was her iconic turn as Elizabeth II in The Crown that made her an international star.

After starring in the first two seasons alongside previous Reign guest, Vanessa Kirby, Claire went on to win two Emmys, two SAG awards and a Golden Globe before turning her attention to the big screen, where she later won the prestigious Critics Choice ‘See Her’ award for pushing boundaries for women on screen.

Now, after a three year break from the spotlight, Claire returns with the BBC Drama, A Very British Scandal which follows the 1950s divorce of Ian, the Duke of Argyll and Margaret, the Duchess of Argyll which became one of the brutal legal cases of the 20th century. During the case a double sexual standard was seen between the Duke and Duchess. Despite the Duke having numerous affairs, Margaret was vilified - in court and in the press - for her sexual appetite. And after the Duke forcefully accessed the Duchess’ private papers, he used an image of Margaret performing a sex act on a ‘headless man’ against her- becoming one of the first examples of modern day ‘slut shaming.’ The story is FASCINATING and if, like me, you wanted to know more immediately after watching the first episode, you can read about Margaret’s fascinating life here: https://www.tatler.com/article/mary-killen-on-the-duchess-of-argyll.

Claire is also about to star in the new movie, The Electrical Life of Louis Wain which follows the life and mental health of Victorian cat artist, Louis, played by Benedict Cumberbatch. Claire plays Emily Richardson who enters Louis’ life as the governess to his five sisters before they fall in love and marry, defying society standards at the time. What may seem like a cute biopic is anything but, it’s a beautiful and at times dark look at our mental health. Plus, Reign favourite, Aimee Lou-Wood also stars in the movie, so I thoroughly recommend you go and see it!

I loved talking to Claire so much about her two latest projects in this episode, Claire opens up about her own mental health journey and how therapy helped her following a breakdown in her mid twenties.

Claire also reflects on how becoming ill as a teenager - she had an operation to remove a tumour from her eye, and also suffered with arthritis meaning she spent long periods of time on crutches - has shaped the person she has become today. Plus Claire shares a very relatable sexist experience involving removal men and how she felt like she didn’t deserve the success she received for The Crown.

I love what Claire has to say about the power of opening up to those around you and being your true self in front of friends (including the good, the bad and the ugly) so I hope this inspires you to talk honestly with the people you care about, because we all need each other more than ever, right?!?

I really hope you continue to listen and find the power to Reign in your own lives, too. We will be back in the new year with a new season celebrating all things wellness! And if you love this episode, please get in touch (follow me across social media @joshsmithhosts), I love hearing from you. Love, Josh xxx