Another Queen is about to stand tall on Reign.

Rachel Skarsten, most recently seen as Christian Grey's assistant in Fifty Shades of Grey, has been cast as Queen Elizabeth, Mary's cousin and one of the most anticipated characters coming to the series.

Skarsten will make her debut as Elizabeth in the Reign Series 2 finale and will be a series regular in Reign Season 3.

"I'm delighted to cast Rachel Skarsten as Elizabeth, a female monarch still in her twenties, early yet in her rule," showrunner Laurie McCarthy says in a statement. "She is a beautiful, cunning and brave mix of opposites: a young woman hardened too soon by life's events, but vulnerable when it comes to love. A mercenary foe riddled with compassion for her rival." 

As viewers know, Queen Elizabeth has been a looming presence in Mary's life for the duration of the series and McCarthy cannot wait to introduce her to the audience.

"Because no single character understands Mary's unique circumstances more. No character is more of a threat to her happiness and her life. Elizabeth's debut in the season finale is a catalyst for events in Season Three, when Reign will chronicle the lives, loves and tribulations of three queens: Mary, Catherine, and now Elizabeth."

Finally, we've wondered if the setting for Reign Season 3 would change, and this comment seems to confirm that notion, "With her introduction, our world expands: the stakes grow even more heightened as we travel to another court filled with the beauty of privilege, passion and intrigue. The wait is over. Elizabeth is here. And I'm certain our audience will welcome her into the fold."

So, what say you Reign Fanatics? Personally, I think this is exactly what the doctor ordered to shake things up. What it means for everyone remains to be seen, but it sounds very exciting!

If you need to catch up, you can watch Reign online via TV Fanatic. Be sure to catch Reign Season 2 Episode 16 when the series returns from hiatus on March 12!

Reign Photos from "Tasting Revenge"

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Carissa Pavlica is the managing editor and a staff writer and critic for TV Fanatic. She's a member of the Critic's Choice Association, enjoys mentoring writers, conversing with cats, and passionately discussing the nuances of television and film with anyone who will listen. Follow her on X and email her here at TV Fanatic.