The Crown is back for the second season, launching on Netflix on December 8. A biographical drama that traces the tumultuous reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the second installment will place the spotlight on political scandals that plagued the monarchy from 1956 to 1964—from the Suez Crisis, which led to the resignation of Prime Minister Anthony Eden to the Profumo Scandal, which cost Harold Macmillan his job—seen through the Queen's eyes.

Rumours are rife about Prince Philip's infedelity and his "wild spirit" puts a strain on the royal couple's relationship, as the Duke of Edinburgh struggles to earn respect in his household. On the other hand, the Queen's rebellious sister Princess Margaret is moving on from her forbidden affair with Peter Townsend and embarking on a passionate escapade with society photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones (Matthew Goode, Downtown Abbey).

As tension rises, change is on the agenda for both the Queen's country and her family—but strength will come through struggle, because "history was not made by those who did nothing." 

This marks the last season for Claire Foy and Matt Smith, who play the Queen and Prince Philip, with Olivia Colman set to play an older Queen Elizabeth II in season three. Read all about season two of The Crown in our December issue.