TV bosses are eyeing a return for The Crown — as a series of films.

Netflix wants to continue the controversial hit drama after the final series this autumn.

But after 60 episodes exploring the lives of the Windsors, bosses hope to take it in a new direction.

A TV insider said: “Although this sounds like a drastic change, it’s one that proved a huge success for Downton Abbey, which ran for 52 episodes before continuing as two hit films.

“Creating a movie, or perhaps a series of specials, means creators would have so much more flexibility to jump in terms of time and topics.

“They could deliver a prequel, perhaps focusing on the abdication crisis in the 1930s.

“Down the line, there’s the option to revisit the 21st century royals, perhaps focusing on Harry meeting Meghan and his fallout with William.”

The Crown debuted in 2016 but some storylines have provoked a backlash from royal supporters.

The sixth and final series, from November, begins with 1997’s death of Diana (Elizabeth Debicki).

It continues to 2005 when Charles (Dominic West) marries Camilla (Olivia Williams).

Creator Peter Morgan has previously changed his mind about when to end the series, first by adding another series, then by changing the end date in the concluding episode.

Netflix declined to comment.