10 Best Episodes Of The Crown
3. Peterfamilias (S2E9)
The episode that would be far more aptly named 'the horrible childhood of Prince Charles', is a shocking reminder of the miseries the young man had to endure. Youngster Julian Barring does an outstanding job in the role of teen Charles, who is forced to go to a school totally unsuitable for his shy nature. Matt Smith realises the selfish cruelty of Prince Philip in brilliant style as he places his child's happiness below that of his own prestige and memories.
We feel each agonising moment Charles has to suffer here, culminating in the heartbreaking climax when he cannot complete an arduous physical course and runs away in tears. There is a brief moment of hope where we see Philip attempt to motivate his child, but it doesn't last long, his disdain and all round embarrassment for his son rising to the surface.
While beautifully crafted, the episode is a real hard watch, your heart breaking for a shy young man who just needed a cuddle. It also gives a fascinating insight into the relationship of two princes who could not be more different.