The second episode of The Crown Season 5, titled “The System,” concludes with the tragic death of Sydney Johnson, formerly Duke of Windsor’s valet, and later confidante to Mohamed Al-Fayed. Johnson’s death, while presented with dramatic license, serves as a pivotal point in the narrative, highlighting Al-Fayed’s relentless ambition and the complexities of his relationship with the ghost of the Duke.
The Significance of Sydney Johnson’s Death
Sydney Johnson’s passing is more than just a plot point; it represents the closing of a chapter for Al-Fayed. Johnson held the keys, both literal and figurative, to the Duke of Windsor’s secrets. He knew the man intimately, having served him faithfully for years. His knowledge, combined with his discretion, made him invaluable. Al-Fayed recognized this, recruiting Johnson to unlock the history and glamour he desperately craved to associate with his acquisition of the Ritz Paris and, eventually, Harrods.
Johnson’s death allows Al-Fayed to fully adopt the Duke’s persona within the Ritz. It’s a symbolic passing of the torch, albeit a torch stained with the ambiguity of ambition and potentially, questionable ethical boundaries. The episode raises questions about the extent Al-Fayed went to in his pursuit of legitimacy, even hinting at a more active role in Johnson’s demise than explicitly shown.
Delving Deeper: Sydney Johnson’s Character
Johnson is portrayed as a meticulous and reserved man, profoundly affected by his years in the Duke’s service. He’s loyal, but also aware of the Duke’s flaws. He holds a quiet dignity that contrasts sharply with Al-Fayed’s boisterous energy. It is this very dignity, born of decades spent in service to one of the most controversial figures in British history, that attracts Al-Fayed.
Johnson’s knowledge of the Duke’s private life and tastes allowed Al-Fayed to recreate the Duke’s suite at the Ritz with uncanny accuracy, transforming it into a living memorial. But this reconstruction isn’t just about decor; it’s about embodying the Duke’s legacy, absorbing his history, and projecting an image of aristocratic grandeur onto Al-Fayed himself.
The Al-Fayed Connection
Mohamed Al-Fayed saw Sydney Johnson as a bridge to the past, a key to unlocking the secrets of the British elite he so desperately wanted to join. He offered Johnson a comfortable retirement and a position of honor within his organization, essentially leveraging Johnson’s knowledge for his own personal gain.
The series hints at a complex relationship between the two men, one built on mutual need but also marked by a power imbalance. Johnson, though respected, remains ultimately subservient to Al-Fayed, his legacy forever intertwined with the ambitions of a man far removed from his own quiet, unassuming life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sydney Johnson & The Crown
Here are twelve frequently asked questions addressing aspects of Sydney Johnson’s life and role within The Crown:
What was Sydney Johnson’s actual role in the Duke of Windsor’s life?
Sydney Johnson was the Duke of Windsor’s valet for over 30 years, serving him from the Duke’s time as Prince of Wales through his abdication and subsequent exile. He was responsible for managing the Duke’s wardrobe, assisting with his daily routine, and acting as a trusted confidante.
How accurate is The Crown’s portrayal of Johnson’s relationship with Al-Fayed?
While The Crown takes liberties with historical events for dramatic effect, the core of Johnson’s relationship with Al-Fayed is based on fact. Al-Fayed did employ Johnson to recreate the Duke of Windsor’s suite at the Ritz Paris and glean insights into the Duke’s life. The exact nuances of their interactions, however, are dramatized.
Did Sydney Johnson actually die around the time depicted in the show?
Historical records confirm that Sydney Johnson died in Paris in 1990, which aligns with the timeline presented in The Crown Season 5. The exact cause of his death and the circumstances surrounding it remain largely unknown, leaving room for speculation and narrative interpretation.
Why was Al-Fayed so interested in the Duke of Windsor?
Al-Fayed was fascinated by the Duke of Windsor because he represented a level of aristocratic prestige and social acceptance that Al-Fayed craved. By associating himself with the Duke’s legacy, Al-Fayed hoped to elevate his own social standing and gain entry into exclusive circles.
Did the Duke of Windsor’s Nazi sympathies play a role in Johnson’s story?
While not explicitly addressed in episode 2, the Duke’s controversial past and his alleged Nazi sympathies hang heavy in the background. Johnson’s decades of service to a man shrouded in such controversy inevitably shape his character and add another layer of complexity to his relationship with Al-Fayed.
What happened to the Duke of Windsor’s possessions after his death?
After the Duke of Windsor’s death in 1972, many of his possessions were sold at auction. This included a vast collection of clothing, personal items, and artwork. Al-Fayed acquired some of these items, further fueling his obsession with the Duke’s legacy.
How did Al-Fayed recreate the Duke of Windsor’s suite at the Ritz?
Al-Fayed relied heavily on Sydney Johnson’s intimate knowledge of the Duke’s preferences and personal style. Johnson helped to meticulously recreate the suite, ensuring that every detail, from the furniture to the artwork, reflected the Duke’s taste. He also had items purchased at auction from the Duke and Duchess estate sale.
What was the significance of the Duke’s clothing collection in the show?
The Duke’s meticulously curated wardrobe symbolized his position within the British aristocracy and his dedication to image and style. Johnson’s stewardship of that wardrobe, as depicted in the series, serves as a point of connection between the Duke’s past and Al-Fayed’s present.
Did Sydney Johnson have any family or descendants?
Information regarding Sydney Johnson’s personal life, including whether he had any family, is scarce. The historical record primarily focuses on his professional life and his connection to the Duke of Windsor and Mohamed Al-Fayed.
What other historical figures did Al-Fayed attempt to associate with?
While the Duke of Windsor was a primary focus, Al-Fayed also sought to associate himself with other prominent figures and institutions within British society, including attempts to gain favor with the royal family.
Is there any evidence to suggest foul play in Sydney Johnson’s death?
There is no publicly available evidence to suggest foul play in Sydney Johnson’s death. The Crown hints at a possible darker side to Al-Fayed’s ambition, but this is largely speculative and serves to enhance the dramatic narrative.
Where can I learn more about the true story of Sydney Johnson and Mohamed Al-Fayed?
Further research can be conducted through biographies of Mohamed Al-Fayed, historical articles about the Duke of Windsor, and documentaries focusing on the Al-Fayed family. Consulting archival materials related to the Duke’s estate sale may also provide additional insights.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Secrets and Ambitions
Sydney Johnson’s death in The Crown is not merely a footnote; it’s a crucial turning point in the narrative, marking the culmination of Al-Fayed’s relentless pursuit of social acceptance and his fascination with the Duke of Windsor. It serves as a reminder of the power of secrets, the allure of history, and the lengths to which some individuals will go to achieve their ambitions, even potentially at the expense of those closest to them. The portrayal, while dramatized, offers a compelling glimpse into the complex dynamics between these two men and the lasting impact of a controversial legacy.