Meg Bellamy, the actress who played a younger version of Princess Kate Middleton in the final season of The Crown, recently opened up about the toll of playing the role. In an interview with U.K.’s Mail on Sunday’s You magazine, Bellamy revealed that she faced negative comments about her body online. The mean comments mainly focused on her being “too fat to play Kate,” giving her a glimpse into the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry. Despite the trolling, Bellamy decided not to listen to such negativity, realizing that it doesn’t hold any significance in her life.
Before landing the role of Kate in The Crown, Bellamy had no prior television experience and was working as a snake performer at Legoland in the U.K. To prepare for her role, she watched hours of footage of Kate Middleton, which helped her develop a parasocial connection with the royal. Bellamy described Kate as gracious, wonderful, and self-assured, and she found herself growing fond of the character while researching for her role. However, in real life, the Duchess of Cambridge revealed in March that she was undergoing treatment for an unspecified form of cancer, generating sympathy from fans and Bellamy alike.
Despite facing negativity online, Bellamy remains positive and confident, focusing on the amazing experiences and opportunities that have come her way. She acknowledged that the trolling comments usually came from individuals who hide behind fake online identities, such as men named Gary holding a fish in their profile picture. By distancing herself from such negativity and focusing on living her best life, Bellamy refuses to let the comments deter her from her career and personal growth. She believes that those who engage in trolling are the real losers, contrasting with her positive experiences and outlook on life.
Playing Kate Middleton in The Crown has been a significant turning point in Bellamy’s career, providing her with an opportunity to showcase her talents on a global platform. Having transitioned from performing as a snake at Legoland to portraying a prominent royal figure, Bellamy’s rise in the entertainment industry reflects her dedication and passion for acting. She expressed gratitude for the role and the experiences it brought, including the chance to immerse herself in the character and develop a deeper understanding of Kate Middleton. The role allowed Bellamy to create a special connection with Kate and express her admiration for the Duchess’s grace and authenticity.
The final season of The Crown concluded in December, coinciding with Kate Middleton’s announcement about her health condition. The news of her undergoing cancer treatment sparked concern and sympathy from fans and fellow individuals in the entertainment industry, including Bellamy. The actress expressed her support and empathy for Kate and her family during this challenging time, emphasizing the strength and resilience shown by the royal family amidst public speculation and scrutiny. By recognizing the difficulties faced by individuals like Kate in the public eye, Bellamy showed her understanding and compassion for the struggles experienced by those in the spotlight.
In reflecting on her journey and experiences playing Kate Middleton, Bellamy highlighted the lessons learned and personal growth achieved through the role. Despite the challenges and negativity faced, she remains determined to pursue her acting career with confidence and resilience. Bellamy’s portrayal of Kate in The Crown not only showcased her talent but also allowed her to connect with the character on a deeper level, fostering a sense of appreciation and admiration for the Duchess of Cambridge. Through her story, Bellamy inspires others to stay true to themselves, focus on their passions, and overcome obstacles with grace and determination.
