The Crown Barely Scratches the Surface of This Infamous Affair

In season two of The Crown, scandal has run rampant throughout the royal house. Between Prince Philip's questionable commitment, the divorce of the Parkers, and Antony's infidelity, it doesn't seem like there's room for any more drama. There is one more romantic tribulation, though, that's too good not to note.

In a short scene, we see the latest prime minister, Harold MacMillan, and his wife, Dorothy, in the car talking frankly about her affair and the plans to visit her not-so-secret lover. They speak so quickly about the details, it's easy to miss if you're not paying attention. Dorothy states she might need a day, maybe two with this nameless man — but she assures Harold it will be the last time. Now that Harold is prime minister, Dorothy claims she's determined to end the affair once and for all.

Later in the episode, we see Dorothy on the phone with her lover; "I want only you," she pleads. "I just can't have him touch me, near me, his weakness repels me, his love disgusts me." It's a heart-wrenching scene to watch Harold listen in, looking broken and defeated.

This affair did actually happen, but not quite how The Crown portrays it. Bob Boothby is the name of Dorothy's infamous lover, and their affair went on for nearly 30 years. It seems like in the series they keep it pretty discreet, but in reality, everyone in Parliament knew about Dorothy's extramarital activities. The affair only ended because of Dorothy's death in 1966. It's even rumored that Dorothy's daughter Sarah was fathered by Boothby, but this has never been proven.

For reference, here are the real Harold and Dorothy: