Gillian Anderson's The Crown Role Has Twitter Very Confused Right Now

Talk about palace intrigue.

On Saturday, Netflix finally confirmed that The X-Files star Gillian Anderson will indeed join The Crown's fourth season as former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher after months of swirling rumors to that effect.

In a statement posted to the show's social media, Anderson said, "I am so excited to be joining the cast and crew of The Crown and to have the opportunity to portray such a complicated and controversial woman. Thatcher was undoubtedly formidable, but I am relishing exploring beneath the surface, and, dare I say, falling in love with the icon who, whether loved or despised, defined an era."

While the casting news itself is hardly a surprise, given how long her name has been unofficially associated with the role, the social media reactions that followed this confirmation have been a bit less expected.

Here's What to Stream Before Gillian Anderson Arrives on The Crown

In short, Twitter erupted with collective confusion over the prospect of seeing Anderson ditch her signature power suits for more matronly wear and pearls to become the Iron Lady.

Those Anderson fans who go in expecting some more of Dana Scully's swagger and sizzle will probably be a bit disappointed, but from Anderson's statement, it seems like she's looking forward to mixing things up -- after all, this is the same role that earned Meryl Streep her third Oscar.

Of course, Anderson is but the latest The Crown cast addition which fans will have to get used to in the coming seasons. The series' third run, which arrives in late fall, will introduce a whole host of new actors, including Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth II, Tobias Menzies as Prince Phillip, and Helena Bonham Carter as Princess Margaret.

The Crown Season 3 will arrive on Netflix on Sunday, Nov. 17.

Seasons 1 and 2 are currently available for streaming on Netflix.

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