'The Crown' makers 'deeply saddened' by Prince Philip's death

The makers of royal drama series The Crown have said they are "deeply saddened" by Prince Philip's death.

On Friday the Royal Family shared that the 99-year-old Duke of Edinburgh had “passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle”.

A statement from the creators of the series in the wake of the news said: “Netflix, Left Bank Pictures, Sony Pictures Television and the production team on The Crown are deeply saddened to hear of the death of The Duke of Edinburgh.

Read more: What Prince Philip gave up for a life of service to the Queen

“Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this sad time.”

The Crown, written by Peter Morgan, follows the personal and political events of the Queen's reign with the first series exploring the early years of her marriage to Prince Philip.

Watch: Prince Philip, husband and consort to the Queen, dies aged 99

He was played by Matt Smith for the first two seasons between 2016 and 2017 opposite Claire Foy's Queen.

The actor went on to receive a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series at the 2018 Emmy Awards for his portrayal.

Tobias Menzies took over the role for the following third and fourth seasons while Olivia Colman became the monarch as new actors were brought in to reflect the ageing process.

Menzies earned himself a nod for Best Actor in a Television Series Drama at the 2020 Golden Globes.

There are a further two series planned with Jonathan Pryce set to succeed Menzies in the role of the Duke of Edinburgh alongside Imelda Staunton's Elizabeth II.

Read more: Prince Philip: The story of a devoted husband to his beloved 'Lilibet'

A number of celebrities have also paid tribute to the late royal, with posts made by stars including Piers Morgan, Eamonn Holmes, Geri Horner and Lord Alan Sugar.

With additional reporting by PA.