Matt Smith is well-known for his portrayal of Prince Philip on Netflix’s “The Crown,” and in a recent interview, he revealed that his role on the program led to a humorous encounter with Prince Harry.
During a Thursday interview on “The Today Show,” the “House of the Dragon” star reflected, “I met Harry once, at polo, which sounds a bit grand, but it wasn’t that grand.”
“And he approached me and said, ‘Grandfather'” Smith continued, imitating Harry’s handshake with him by shaking cohost Savannah Guthrie’s hand.
“He observed the program! I cannot pretend to know if he watches it today, but he did watch it in the past “the actor continued.
Guthrie concurred, stating to Smith, “Well, he did watch your shows.”
Elsewhere in the conversation, Smith disclosed that a buddy of his previously dined with Prince Philip. According to Smith, his friend and Philip briefly discussed “The Crown” at dinner, and as the meal neared its time, Smith’s friend decided to ask the monarch if he watched the show.
According to Smith’s acquaintance, Philip’s response was “Don’t be foolish.”
Smith presently portrays Prince Daemon Targaryen on the HBO prequel series “House of the Dragon” for “Game of Thrones.” During his interview on “The Today Show,” the “Doctor Who” star told Guthrie and cohost Hoda Kotb that he was first “hesitant” to take on the job, but is now grateful for the opportunity to portray such a “gnarly” character.