Minnie Driver is stepping into the royal shoes of Queen Elizabeth I, the formidable monarch of the 16th and 17th centuries, in the second season of Starz’s series, “The Serpent Queen.” Known for her roles in films like “Good Will Hunting” and the TV show “Will & Grace,” Driver brings a fresh perspective to one of England’s most influential rulers.
In a recent interview with US, Driver discussed her approach to portraying Queen Elizabeth. “I had many discussions with Justin Haythe, the executive producer, about the multifaceted aspects of Elizabeth,” Driver explained. “We focused on showcasing her playfulness and her use of sexuality as power.” Rather than revisiting previous portrayals, Driver aimed to highlight what made her interpretation unique, emphasizing the inherent power of the historical figure.
Driver recognizes the significance of her role in the context of ongoing discussions about women in leadership. In “The Serpent Queen,” she stars alongside Samantha Morton, who plays Catherine de’ Medici, the Queen of France known for her political maneuvering and ruthlessness. Although history does not confirm a face-to-face meeting between Elizabeth and Catherine, the series creatively explores their imagined interactions.
Driver is comfortable with the show’s creative liberties. “The series imagines a connection between the two queens. We’re not claiming to present a factual account but rather a compelling narrative,” she noted. Her commitment to authenticity extended to the detailed portrayal of Queen Elizabeth’s elaborate style, which involved extensive daily makeup, costume, and hair preparation.
Reflecting on her public persona, Driver compared her ability to maintain privacy between projects to that of singer Adele. She attributes this to social media, which allows her to share aspects of her real life on her own terms. “I use social media to share my life selectively, which helps control the narrative and maintain authenticity,” Driver explained. This approach has also led to less paparazzi attention.
Driver’s podcast, “Minnie Questions with Minnie Driver,” reflects her curiosity and passion. She interviews experts across various fields, posing the same seven questions to each guest. If given the chance, Driver would ask Queen Elizabeth about the secrets behind her long reign. “I’d ask if it was her secretary, Francis Walsingham, who established the first secret service to protect her, or if she had a secret lover who supported her throughout,” Driver mused.
The second season of “The Serpent Queen” airs on Starz, with new episodes available on Fridays at 8 p.m. ET.
