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Rob James-Collier has been confirmed for upcoming ITV1 costume drama Downton Abbey.
The actor, who played Liam Connor in Coronation Street, has been cast alongside Dame Maggie Smith.
Collier also joins Benidorm actress Siobhan Finneran, Joanne Froggatt, Hugh Bonneville, Penelope Wilton and Jim Carter.
The drama, said to be a subtle remake of Upstairs, Downstairs, has been written by Oscar-winning scribe Julian Fellowes.
Fellowes told What's On TV: "In 1912, England was teetering on the brink. Apparently placid, still rooted in the traditions of many centuries, it would be less than ten years before the First World War and the Jazz age had ripped every certainty to shreds.
"This is the moment when we enter the world of Downton Abbey, the great house of a great family, where the Granthams and their daughters preside over a household in the charge of Carson, the butler, and Mrs Hughes, the housekeeper. All these people must, in their different ways, deal with the changes that are coming."
ITV's director of drama Laura Mackie said: "We're delighted with the stellar cast who have come together for Downton Abbey. It's testament to the quality of Julian's wonderful scripts and the calibre of the production team that some of the brightest and best of the UK's leading actors have come on board."
The show, which is seven episodes long, plans to launch with a special 90-minute film in the autumn.
:cheer:
tammyy2j
23-02-2010, 12:49
I cant really see Rob James-Collier in a costume drama
Rob James-Collier has revealed that it was his idea to add a gay kiss into a scene in his new ITV show.
The former Coronation Street actor will play 'greedy' footman Thomas in new costume drama series Downton Abbey.
"It's a dream job because it’s completely the other side of the spectrum, particularly as it carries on," the actor told the Manchester Evening News. "My character gets nastier."
He admitted that it was his idea for Thomas to kiss a visiting Duke, played by Charlie Cox, in the first episode.
"It wasn't actually in the scene but at the second rehearsal it dawned on me that there was a moment missing and we could improve it," he said. "I'm sure my friends back in Manchester will have a few things to say. But you play a character who happens to be gay. It's not an issue."
James-Collier confessed that he had found the kiss easier to film than on-screen embraces with female co-stars.
"When you're kissing a woman and you want it to look realistic, you're thinking, 'Am I taking advantage of her? Is her boyfriend going to think I'm over-stepping the mark?'" he said.
"Whereas when you are kissing a man, those thoughts don't cross your mind. I'm more scared of it looking false, so I went for it fully to make it look real and hopefully I've achieved that."
The 33-year-old added that he is not sure how Coronation Street viewers will react to his new role.
He said: "I don't know if Coronation Street fans will be shocked. I want to show myself in a different light. Before Coronation Street I was a jobbing actor and after it I'm a jobbing actor again. You're in different parts all the time and people have to twig that it's not real."
Aww, I'm looking forward to seeing Rob James-Collier again, especially since his character in this sounds very different from Liam in Corrie.
Sunday, 26 September 2010, 9:00PM - 10:30PM
Set in an Edwardian country house in 1912, Downton Abbey portrays the lives of the Crawley family and the servants who work for them.
ITV’s new costume drama series, Downton Abbey, written and created by Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes and made by Carnival Films for ITV stars Maggie Smith as Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham, Hugh Bonneville as Robert, Earl of Grantham and Elizabeth McGovern as Robert’s wife, Cora, Countess of Grantham.
They lead an all-star cast, which also includes Penelope Wilton, Dan Stevens, Michelle Dockery,Jim Carter, Phyllis Logan, Lesley Nicol, Siobhan Finneran, Rob James-Collier, Joanne Froggatt, as well as new and emerging actors, Rose Leslie, Sophie McShera, Laura Carmichael, Jessica Brown Findlay and Thomas Howes.
Guest artists include Robert Bathurst, Samantha Bond, Allen Leech, David Robb, Brendan Patrick and Theo James.
EPISODE ONE:
As Daisy the kitchenmaid opens up the house a telegram is delivered. It is 16th April 1912 and the Titanic has gone down, taking with it Lord Grantham’s heir, James Crawley, and his son, Patrick. So who is the new heir? Not just to the earldom but to Downton Abbey, itself, which is entailed to the title. Violet, the Dowager Countess, assumes Robert, the present Earl, will break the entail and make an heiress of his eldest daughter, Mary, but Robert is not so sure. To make matters worse, his wife, Cora, has her own money tied up in the estate, and there is no way to extract it without crippling Downton. Even if Robert could break the entail, or take Cora’s money out of it, would he want to?
Below stairs, a new valet, John Bates, arrives. Bates was Robert’s batman during the Boer War and Robert welcomes him. However, he looks as shocked as the rest of the servants when he sees Bates’s limp. Will this hamper his duties? Cora’s maid, O’Brien, and first footman, Thomas, who wanted Bates’s job, deliberately try to sabotage his first days at work.
Mary was supposed to marry the heir, the late Patrick Crawley, but his death has freed her to move on. She believes her own prospects have changed for the better, and now she angles to catch the young Duke of Crowborough. Her sister, Edith, was in love with Patrick and seethes with resentment towards Mary. The Duke arrives at Downton, ostensibly to present his condolences, but after dinner he requests an interview with Robert, presumably to ask for Mary’s hand. But when he learns that Robert is not
intending to challenge the entail he withdraws his offer, without ever in fact making it. It was Thomas who bought the Duke to Downton, luring him with the prospect of the Grantham money. He and Thomas shared a summer dalliance and Thomas intends to use this to further his own career, blackmailing the Duke with his own letters if he has to. However, the Duke is one step ahead of Thomas who can only watch as the incriminating pages go up in flames.
Meanwhile, Robert informs Bates that his disability is interfering with his work and he will have to go. Bates seems to take the news well, but the Head Housemaid, Anna, hears him crying in his room. However, as Crowborough leaves Robert finds himself unable to let Bates down in this way, and to the amazement of Cora and the servants he asks the valet to stay.
Mary’s fury is matched by Cora’s surprise when they realise Robert has made up his mind and will not challenge the entail. He has discovered the identity of his new heir, a distant cousin, and intends to write to the young man and invite him to Downton.
tammyy2j
23-09-2010, 13:43
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M3moEeErr8
I'm looking forward to watching this.
moonstorm
24-09-2010, 11:45
Definately going to give this one a go.
Chloe O'brien
24-09-2010, 11:50
I need to watch it on digital channel as STV are showing a repeat of Billy Connolly in the Artic again.
parkerman
24-09-2010, 11:59
I love Maggie Smith! :heart:
She's great, and it's unusual for her to be on TV, so this must be a classy programme.
Rob James-Collier had to "up his game" to keep up with his 'Downton Abbey' co-stars.
The former 'Coronation Street' actor - who plays corrupt footman Thomas in the new ITV1 period drama - felt like he had to give "120 per cent" when starring alongside Maggie Smith and Hugh Bonneville in the show, because acting has always been difficult for him.
He told BANG Showbiz: "Acting has been a challenge for me from day one. I've got friends who acting just comes naturally to them. I've had to work really hard.
"With a cast like this, I had to be working at 120 per cent the whole time just to keep up with them, but that can only make me a better actor. It's definitely made me up my game."
The 34-year-old star - who previously played Liam Connor in ITV1's 'Coronation Street' - also admitted he feels very "lucky" in his career, as there are people who are much better actors than him.
He explained: "It was just a quirk of fate that I fell into it. I wasn't happy with what I was doing, but I had never specifically intended to become an actor. My friend was doing a student film at Salford University and one of the actors dropped out. Me being me, I was game for a laugh and turned up and did this part unpaid on a cold Sunday morning on my day off and ended up absolutely loving it.
"I went through the Yellow Pages to find an agent and called up the first bloke I saw and started acting classes the next week. Four months later I got my first job! I was incredibly lucky. There are a lot of people who are better actors out there than me."
The first episode of the seven-part drama series aired last night (26.09.10) on ITV1.
I really enjoyed this program last night.
no1abbafan
27-09-2010, 18:30
Really enjoyed it last night - a must for me every Sun night now. Didn't recognise "Liam Connor" as the footman at first but really enjoyed him.
parkerman
27-09-2010, 19:00
I enjoyed it too. But I kept thinking that Robert Timmins was going to deliver some common sense homely lecture until I realised that Brendan Coyle was now playing Bates the Valet instead. Brendan always seems to be such a nice man, whoever he's playing!
Brendan Coyle seems to do a lot of costume dramas. He was also in North and South a couple of years ago.
I really enjoyed the opening episode of Downton Abbey and am looking forward to the rest of the series. Rob James-Collier was better than I expected too - very different from Liam.
ITV has ordered a second series of Downton Abbey.
The period drama, which was written by Julian Fellowes, focuses on the Crawley family and the servants working for them.
The third episode aired on Sunday night, picking up overnight ratings of 8.1m.
ITV has now revealed that it has recommissioned the series, which stars Dame Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Brendan Coyle, Penelope Wilton and Elizabeth McGovern.
ITV's director of drama commissioning Laura Mackie said: "We're delighted with the audience response to Downton Abbey and the positive critical reaction. We're extremely proud to have commissioned a series which has clearly captivated ITV1 viewers.
"Consequently, we're thrilled to be announcing the recommission of a new series for 2011 which will allow us to spend more time with the Crawley family and their servants."
The current series of Downton Abbey continues on Sunday at 9pm on ITV1.
:cheer: Good news!
I'm happy about that, too :D I've been really enjoying Downton Abbey.
parkerman
12-10-2010, 10:30
Yes, me too. The only slight criticism I have is that the antipathy shown to Bates in the first episode seems to have been completely forgotten. I know that he was kept on by the Earl, but I'm sure that Thomas and whatshername wouldn't have stopped plotting to get him out so that Thomas could have his job.
Chloe O'brien
12-10-2010, 10:38
Yeah I'm surprised there has been more animousity between Bates, Thomas and O'brien. Glad that there will be a second series as it's had tough competition on Sunday nights, especially this week with David Tennant's (Single Father) and David Morrissey (Thorne Sky1)
moonstorm
12-10-2010, 10:43
Yeah, very good news, I am really enjoying this.
Yes, me too. The only slight criticism I have is that the antipathy shown to Bates in the first episode seems to have been completely forgotten. I know that he was kept on by the Earl, but I'm sure that Thomas and whatshername wouldn't have stopped plotting to get him out so that Thomas could have his job.
I thought that when their plot failed, they knew it was useless to try again. I don't think the animosity would have stopped, though that hasn't been shown.
parkerman
12-10-2010, 10:47
Yeah I'm surprised there has been more animousity between Bates, Thomas and O'brien.
Ooops, I should have remembered it was O'Brien. I'm sure you wouldn't ever forget that!!!:D
moonstorm
12-10-2010, 10:48
I thought that when their plot failed, they knew it was useless to try again. I don't think the animosity would have stopped, though that hasn't been shown.
Yes but do you not think it is bubbling under the surface and it will come back in a later episode?
Yes but do you not think it is bubbling under the surface and it will come back in a later episode?
Yes, that's a distinct possibility. As Parkerman said, it would be strange for the animosity to stop completely.
Sunday, 24 October 2010, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
Sybil informs Gwen that she has applied for a position on Gwen’s behalf. Gwen is thrilled to discover she has an interview and she fakes a headache in order to make it. Sybil takes the governess cart and together with Gwen speeds off towards the town. Although the interview goes well the pair run into problems on their return journey and with the family worrying about Sybil’s whereabouts, they arrive at Downton late, wet and miserable.
Daisy is unable to get over what she witnessed on the night of Pamuk’s death and O‘Brien and Thomas suspect that the girl knows something. O’Brien deliberately hints to Edith that Daisy is hiding what she knows and that it may be harmful to Mary. Bearing out Cora’s worries about the rivalry between her daughters, Edith at once summons Daisy to her. This is too frightening for Daisy to withstand and she tells Edith everything.
In the village hall, they are preparing for the summer flower show. Isobel learns that Violet always wins the Grantham Cup for Best Bloom, despite Molesley’s father, Bill, growing the best roses. Violet denies that any outside influence is ever brought to bear. Isobel isn’t convinced.
Cora informs Robert of a rumour going round London questioning Mary’s virtue. Who could be spreading it? Surely not Evelyn Napier. Cora wants Mary married. She suggests a local landowner, Sir Anthony Strallan. Robert is unconvinced. Strallan is too old and stuffy. Mary rejects the plan. She tells Cora to concentrate on Edith’s marital prospects, she needs all the help she can get. Edith is listening. Mrs Patmore seems fretful. Nothing is right, and Mrs Hughes notes to Carson that Daisy is bearing the brunt. Cora has the recipe for a pudding that she’d like to give to Sir Anthony. Mrs Patmore will have none
of it and shouts at Daisy when she suggests she could read the new recipe to her. However, later, as pudding is served, Sir Anthony splutters in disgust. The whole thing is covered with salt instead of sugar. Mrs Patmore is quick to blame Daisy but when she is alone with Carson, she confesses she thinks she’s going blind. Carson reveals this to Mrs Hughes and although she sympathises, she makes it known that this behaviour cannot continue.
Thomas is almost caught stealing wine by Bates and when Thomas’s bullying of William continues, the boy has an ally in Bates who foolishly hints to Thomas that he might reveal the latter’s stealing of the wine to Mr Carson. He never would, but Thomas looks to O’Brien for help and they embroil a naive Daisy into their plan.
One of Robert’s snuff boxes has gone missing and Carson rounds up the servants. Anna realises that Thomas and O’Brien are involved. She warns Bates and sure enough he finds the missing box has been planted in his room. But, although he enjoys watching O’Brien and Thomas fret when Carson demands a room search, in the end he replaces it without giving them away. Anna tells Bates how she feels about him,but he cannot allow himself to respond. Something in his past is preventing him.
Matthew makes it clear to Isobel that he has no interest in Edith, and responds to Mary’s attention. But a misjudged act of sisterly rivalry, designed to make a fool of Edith in front of Sir Anthony, sees Matthew make an early exit. Mary’s anxiety at his departure demonstrates her growing attraction to the heir. Which does not go unnoticed by Robert. At the flower show, Violet announces the winner of The Grantham Cup…Mr. Molesley…The village is too surprised to clap. A weeping Molesley is pushed onto the stage to receive the cup. Violet is at first rather annoyed and then finally pleased by her new status as village benefactor. That night, in her bedroom,Edith has written a letter. She addresses the envelope. “His Excellency the Turkish Ambassador, 43 Belgrave Square, London, SW.” She licks the flap and seals it with relish.
Chloe O'brien
12-10-2010, 23:36
When do we get to the part that Bates knocks ten bells out of Thomas.
Former Coronation Street star Rob James-Collier has admitted that he was fully prepared for a career dry patch when he bowed out from the soap.
The actor's decision to leave the role of Weatherfield's Liam Connor was announced in February 2008, and viewers saw the character killed off in a hit-and-run in October of the same year.
Speaking to TV Times about life away from the cobbles, James-Collier commented: "After leaving a massive show with a huge following like Coronation Street, you have to make your choices carefully and be prepared not to work for a while."
He continued: "I knew it was going to be a stretch before casting directors would look at me and not see Liam."
The 34-year-old told the magazine that he ultimately turned down a number of jobs because he was holding out for the right role after departing the Street.
He said: "The benefit on being on something like Corrie is you can save up a little nest egg, so you know that, when you go, you have that as a fallback. You can take your time and make the right choice, without money being too much of a concern."
James-Collier is currently appearing as footman Thomas in ITV1's Downton Abbey.
Rob James-Collier was very sensible to save up his money while on Corrie to see him through a dry patch. He took a risk turning down jobs to wait for the right role, but it's really paid off for him - he's very good as Downton Abbey's sly Thomas.
Sunday, 31 October 2010, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
Bates lets it slip to Robert that Sybil went to a political rally, with Branson. The news that she wants to offer her support is met with bewilderment from her father and disgust from her grandmother. Cora’s position is less clear.
Gwen is despondent regarding her luck with her attempts to become a secretary. Sybil urges Gwen not to give up her dreams. As far as Sybil’s dreams are concerned, she is frustrated when Robert forbids her to attend the High Sherriff’s reading of the election results as she realises she is a natural Suffragette.
However, she is determined and she ensnares an unsuspecting and love struck Branson into her plan of how to get there. Mary’s horse is lame and William offers to look at it. He and Mary discuss his strong family bond and how proud his mother is, to see him a footman at Downton. Mary finds she likes the young man and when Isobel informs her that William’s mother is gravely ill, but that she does not want William to know or to visit her, Mary makes up her mind to overturn this, despite Isobel’s and Cora’s protests that this would go against his mother wishes.
Sir Anthony Strallan calls to see if Mary would like to try out his new automobile. She’s busy but Edith would be delighted. This is a slight disappointment but he soon discovers that Edith is far more suited to him than Mary would have been. He really enjoys her company and returns to invite Edith to accompany him to a concert – much to her delight.
Daisy has lied to Mr Carson, in order to help Thomas, but now she realises this was not honourable and informs Carson. Bates is cleared of any wrong doing, but he will not inform on Thomas and instead hands in his notice, informing Carson, Anna and Mrs Hughes that they have been misled by him. He has been a drunkard and in the past has been imprisoned as a thief.
Carson has had a letter informing him of the rumours harming Mary. He feels it his duty to report them to Cora, who, although shocked, knows a lot more than Carson when it comes to the truth. Sybil and Branson attend the High Sherriff’s reading of the election results. Matthew is there and he can see that trouble is brewing. He tries to usher Sybil away. But, before he can, he is embroiled in a fight and
Sybil is knocked unconscious. Matthew alerts Mary and takes Sybil to Isobel for treatment. Matthew’s tenderness towards Sybil affects the sisters. Which does not go unnoticed by Isobel.
Robert also witnesses the new turn in Mary and Matthew’s relationship, which develops into a kiss and a marriage proposal. An amazed Mary tells Cora the news. However, Mary feels honour bound to reveal the truth about Pamuk, knowing this could destroy everything. Robert is incensed when he learns that Sybil went to hear the results against his wishes and informs her that Branson will be fired. But he relents when she, Mary and Matthew attempt to defend him. Violet has also received a letter repeating the story about Mary. Learning of the proposal, Violet immediately writes back to quash the rumours. Together she and Cora devise a plan to reassess Mary’s marital status later in the year, should she turn Matthew down.
STV boss Hain defends station's scheduling policy STV boss Bobby Hain says the station has the right strategy Scottish broadcaster STV has defended its move to drop popular ITV network programmes.
Managing Director Bobby Hain insisted ratings were in line with ITV as a whole and that the station's strategy was the right one.
STV has come under attack for its decision to drop ITV1's costume drama Downton Abbey.
Mr Hain, who was answering questions from Radio Times readers, said STV's schedule was "relevant and affordable".
He added that more than 95% of STV's peaktime schedule was made up of ITV network content.
In the past year, STV has dropped ITV drama output including Doc Martin, Marple and Midsomer Murders.
Although Freeview users in Scotland are unable to watch such programmes, those with satellite and cable can view them on ITV1 London.
The company claims its scheduling changes are working, pointing to overall viewing figures which are in line with the rest of the ITV network.
STV said it had increased the amount of Scottish programming - arguing it makes more than the BBC in part because it provides localised news services for different parts of the country.
It added that most episodes of Downton Abbey have been replaced by new episodes of the police drama Taggart which will not be shown in the rest of the UK until next year.
Mr Hain said that STV would love to produce a long-running soap opera again. Its last soap, High Road, ended several years ago.
He also said the broadcaster was making an online sketch show.
It is unclear how many Scots may be watching Downton Abbey on ITV1 London which is shown on Sky 993, Freesat 977 and Virgin 853.
However, figures last year suggested more than 100,000 people were using this method to watch the network dramas which STV decides not to show.
The full question and answer session with Mr Hain is published in the new issue of the Radio Times.
BBC News
Chloe O'brien
19-10-2010, 09:48
STV is living in coockoo land if they think that the viewing figures haven't been affected. The only time I watch STV now is for the local news otherwise I just watch channel 853
Sunday, 7 November 2010, 9:00PM - 10:30PM
Embargoed from press use and publication until Tuesday 2 November 2010.
Series finale.
Cora discovers she is pregnant. The family is astonished and, in London, Mary wonders how to answer Matthew’s proposal, since his situation would change completely if the baby is a boy. Her aunt, Lady Rosamund Painswick, questions whether Mary would be happy as the wife of a solicitor. Evelyn Napier tells Mary that the story going round about Mary and Pamuk was started by Edith.
In Downton, family and servants prepare for a garden party in aid of the local hospital. Everyone is delighted at the prospect of a new baby. Robert, however, is anxious to do the right thing by Matthew, who is already bitterly disappointed that Mary will not give him an answer until after the birth. Isobel discovers that, for a change, she and Violet are agreed on this matter. They both wish Mary would say yes. Mary accuses Edith of spreading the story that threatens to ruin her. Edith shrugs. Mary had it coming.
At Mrs Hughes’s prompting, Robert informs Mrs Patmore that he has arranged for her to see an eyespecialist in London. Anna will accompany her. Mrs Crawley’s cook, Mrs Bird, will look after them. Mrs Patmore asks Daisy to ensure Mrs Bird’s cooking does not surpass her own. Daisy takes her task very seriously.
O’Brien has received a letter. Thomas is thrilled with its contents and they show it to Carson who passes it on to Robert. It contains unfortunate news that O’Brien has dug up about Bates, and Bates’s future at Downton still hangs in the balance following his revelations in the previous episode. Robert informs Cora. He would prefer to get rid of O’Brien, rather than Bates, and he says it just as she walks into the room. O’Brien is angry at the thought of being replaced and the news motivates Thomas to enquire with Clarkson about finding work in the army medical corps. When Thomas tells O’Brien that Cora is advertising for a new maid, O’Brien’s rage makes her arrange an accident for Cora resulting in the miscarriage of her baby boy. But O’Brien is mortified when she discovers the truth. It was Violet, not Cora, who was looking for a lady’s maid.
Mr Bromidge is charged with fitting Downton’s telephone. The servants all wonder how it works. Bromidge is talking to Sybil about his trying to find a secretary. She immediately thinks of Gwen. Sybil enlists Branson’s help and ensures the job interview goes ahead without a hitch in the library.
The news of the death of Cora’s unborn son spreads quickly and Thomas’s callous comments bring a punch from William. The moment bonds William and Daisy. But when Mary tries to accept Matthew, she finds her delay in giving her answer before the miscarriage has cost her a husband.
In London, Anna delves into Bates’s history. She visits his former Barracks and gets an address for his mother who tells her the truth of her son’s past. Anna informs Robert who assures Bates that his job is secure. Despite this, Bates is still hesitant to reveal his true feelings towards Anna, but when Molesley makes an enquiry into Anna’s availability, Bates assures him she has a serious admirer.
Molesley sees Thomas attempting to steal a wallet from Carson’s coat pocket. Carson informs Robert and they agree to dismiss Thomas after the garden party.
On the day of the party, Mrs Bird and Mrs Patmore, having initially hated each other, find common ground in fighting Mrs Hughes. Before Carson gets a chance to sack him, Thomas hears from Dr Clarkson that he has a place on a training course at Richmond Camp. Instantly, he hands in his notice.
tammyy2j
03-01-2011, 19:27
This is coming on TV3 in Ireland soon
This is coming on TV3 in Ireland soon
Might catch it this time around
Was on ITV1 this afternoon :)
ITV and Carnival Films have confirmed plans to air a special Christmas episode of Downton Abbey.
After the unprecedented success of the first series, ITV announced plans to air a second series this autumn, following which a one-off special will air over the Christmas period.
"Julian [Fellowes] has come up with a fantastic story that will give the audience that chance to enjoy the experience of the festive season at Downton Abbey," said ITV's director of drama Laura Mackie. "We're delighted to have this as part of our Christmas schedule for December 2011."
The first run of Downton Abbey finished in November last year, reaching an aggregate audience of 12.8 million viewers.
The show will first return with an eight-episode second series later this year.
DS
Brilliant news :cheer:
The first run of Downton Abbey finished in November last year, reaching an aggregate audience of 12.8 million viewers.
It must have been one of the highest rated programs of 2010 with that many viewers. Take Eastenders, Corrie, X Factor and Big Brother out of the equation and there's not many other programs that could reach that many viewers.
Chloe O'brien
23-01-2011, 01:12
Hugh Bonville was on Daybreak last week and said that filming the new series would begin at the end of February so that's good news.
She's been busy making her name known on the stage front, but Amy Nuttall is soon making a return to the box.
The former Emmerdale actress, who played man-eater Chloe Atkinson in the ITV soap for five years, will be heading downstairs as she joins Downton Abbey for its second series.
The 28-year-old will play new housemaid Ethel in the hit period drama, when it returns to the small screens later this year.
Other new arrivals include Spooks star Iain Glen, who will portray Sir Richard Carlisle, Irish actress and singer Maria Doyle Kennedy playing Vera Bates - wife of war-wounded valet John Bates (Brendan Coyle), Cal Macaninch as new valet Lang and Sons Of Anarchy actress Zoe Boyle as Lavinia Swire.
Filming on the eagerly awaited follow-up season has started at Hampshire's Highclere Castle, and the programme is scheduled for a Christmas return.
Chloe O'brien
20-02-2011, 00:33
Amy must be taking over from the Gwen who wanted to be a typist. They're making eight episodes this year.
Hugh Bonneville has no idea what's in store for the second series of 'Downton Abbey'.
The 47-year-old actor - who plays wealthy heir Lord Grantham in the ITV1 show - is to reprise his role in the next season of the period drama, but has no idea if his alter-ego will even survive until the end of filming.
He said: "I haven't seen a script. I learnt from the newspapers that this series is set a couple of years after the last episode and the house becomes a convalescent home for First World War casualties.
"And I definitely wear uniform because I got fitted for it the other day - but other than that I know nothing. I could get killed."
While he insists he has no idea what the second series has in store, Hugh admits he submitted some plot ideas - but creator Julian Fellowes rejected his idea of opening with the funeral of a dog.
Hugh added: "I did suggest it but, ah, Julian said he'd give me four corgis instead."
Explaining why he was attracted to the show in the first place, Hugh admitted he was hooked on the characters as soon as he started reading the script.
He told Radio Times magazine: "It was one of the most readable scripts I'd ever seen. I really wanted to know what happened to these people."
(C) BANG Media International
Laura Carmichael and Jessica Brown Findlay have dropped hints about the second series of Downton Abbey.
Speaking to Digital Spy on the red carpet before last night's Philips British Academy Television Awards, Carmichael explained that the war will have a big impact on the characters.
"It changes things a lot for everyone in the house," she said. "I think it will be very exciting."
Brown Findlay added: "I think it has quite an effect on the three sisters. It's quite interesting how dynamics are changing. It's pretty good!"
Meanwhile, new cast member Amy Nuttall revealed some details of her character, saying: "I play Ethel Parks, a new housemaid. Not the most popular of housemaids amongst the other staff! She doesn't really think before she speaks, gets herself into a bit of trouble here and there. So she's a bit of a minx, a bit of a naughty one!"
The second series of Downton Abbey will air later this year on ITV1.
DS
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/21/article-0-00981E8B00000578-668_468x549.jpg
Nigel Havers will soon be returning to our screens after landing a role in ITV1's period drama Downton Abbey.
The 59-year-old star will be joined in the series by The Inspector Linley Mysteries actress Sharon Small.
The actor, who recently appeared in Coronation Street as a male escort hired by Audrey Roberts, will play Lord Hepworth in the show.
A return to the small screen: Nigel Havers has signed up to appear in Downton Abbey on ITV1
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On board: Sharon Small, who starred in the Inspector Linley Mysteries, will also appear in Downton
An insider told the Daily Mirror newspaper: 'Nigel and Sharon will be the perfect additions to this year's Downton.
'They are incredibly talented actors and are already hugely popular with our audience.
'After the success of last year's series, bosses are determined to keep up the momentum by introducing high-profile stars to keep viewers excited.
'There's massive anticipation ahead of the second series and bringing in well-known faces like Nigel will help the show come back with a bang.
'We're very excited that Nigel Havers and Sharon Small will be joining the cast later this year.
'They are looking forward to getting started on set.'
The top rating show – which attracted 11 million views at the end of the first series – is set to return this Christmas.
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/21/article-0-0CE7D42D000005DC-20_468x286.jpg
Hit show: Maggie Smith appears in Downton Abbey which picked up viewing figures of 11 million
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Denial: Julian Fellowes has refuted a claim that his script for Gosford Park was changed by the cast
Meanwhile, Downton's writer Julian Fellowes has refuted claims that the actors in his movie Gosford Park did not actually use a word of his screenplay.
Monte Hellman, an American director, alleges that 'literally the whole script was rewritten on the set' of the 2001 country house drama.
He said: '[Fellowes] won an Academy Award, and not one line of dialogue remained in the movie.'
Lord Fellowes said: 'I am saddened to think this canard is still current, as I would have thought that Downton, if nothing else, had proved that I did write Gosford, since the characters, and certainly Maggie [Smith], speak with exactly the same voice.”
'Ninety per cent of Gosford was not only written by me, but written (with plenty of notes from Bob [Balaban]) before shooting began.
'Bob liked to have the actors say the scripted lines and then, if the scene was still continuing, to bang on until it was over.
'Naturally, this only applied to the big, group scenes. Very little that was improvised made it into the final edit.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2017270/Nigel-Havers-joins-Downton-Abbey-landing-role-ITV1-show.html#ixzz1SmQRlpj0
was sharon smal in mistresses?
was sharon smal in mistresses?
Yep She played Trudi Malloy
Chloe O'brien
22-07-2011, 10:59
STV has agreed to show the second series this year. Yipee !!
THE new series of Downton Abbey will feature a wedding, a funeral, a war and a SEX scene, TV Biz can reveal.
The long-awaited second instalment of the period drama returns to our screens in September - but we've had a sneak preview.
After drawing in nearly 13 million viewers last year, the ITV hit promises to deliver again with a heady mix of romance, scandal, tragedy, laughs - and more questions of etiquette.
And there's more good news for fans as the cast and crew of the upstairs-downstairs saga have been primed for at least another series... if not FOUR.
Executive producer Gareth Neame said: "I think it can continue for series four, five and six! It could move up to the 1930s, as long as the audience wants it."
Series one ended as the First World War began - and the second outing sees Downton Abbey turned into a convalescent home for injured troops.
But as usual at Downton, nothing is going to be straightforward. Brendan Coyle, who plays lovelorn valet Mr Bates, revealed: "There are so many twists and turns - things happen in this series that you definitely won't see coming.
"Mr Bates's will-they-won't-they romance with head housemaid Anna (Joanne Froggatt) is set to continue.
But viewers will be left wondering whether they can ever have a happy ending, especially when his WIFE turns up.
Meanwhile there is hope for those other Downton lovebirds - heir apparent Matthew Crawley, played by Dan Stevens, and Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery). Their romance stalled at the end of the last series when he rejected her advances. But actor Dan has hinted it may not be the end of the relationship.
All toffed up ... Matthew and Lord Robert in uniform
He revealed: "There is a wedding - but whether it involves me and Lady Mary or not, you'll just have to wait and see.
"We're still filming so I don't even know myself how things will pan out."
Matthew is one of three Downton characters who go off to fight in the trenches - and their scenes were filmed in a field near Ipswich during the huge 23-week shoot.
Dan said: "It was such fun to film - the real stuff of dreams for a boy. It was very cold and very muddy and I was still finding bits of soil from the explosions in my hair and clothes, days later."
Breaking news ... Sir Richard Carlisle
Back home Lady Sybil (Jessica Brown Findlay) turns nurse and Lady Edith learns to drive.
That put actress Laura Carmichael behind the wheel of a £500,000 vintage motor. She said: "I think my heart rate is only just going back to normal!"
Downton's Dowager Countess Violet (Maggie Smith) and faithful servants Mr Carson (Jim Carter) and William Mason (Thomas Howes) return. While among the new characters are posh Lavinia Swire (Zoe Boyle) - a love interest for Matthew - and newspaper magnate Sir Richard Carlisle (Iain Glen).
Below stairs there's housemaid Ethel, played by ex-Emmerdale actress Amy Nuttall. She revealed: "Ethel has an eye for the men and one in particular.
Class acts ... Lady Edith with Dowager Countess Violet
"She's silly and doesn't think before she acts or speaks, which gets her into trouble time and time again."
Downton Abbey, which also returns for a Christmas special, has been sold to 22 countries.
Hugh Bonneville, who plays Lord Robert Grantham, is still coming to terms with its success. He said: "I first realised how big it was when a ten-year-old boy started telling me how horrid the footman Thomas is.
"I've had people grabbing me and asking, 'Why isn't there a second series yet?'
"So we've been filming it as fast as we can!"
Muddy marvel
First review by LUCY CONNOLLY
AS soon as the first scenes unfold, it's clear that this is a very different Downton Abbey.
It's 1916 and the action starts in the trenches amid flying mud and exploding shells.
Then we're whisked back to Downton where the war is affecting everybody - upstairs gentry and downstairs servants.
But some things never change: the battle for control of the house between Isobel (Penelope Wilton) and the Dowager Countess (Maggie Smith); the tensions between the two sets of thwarted lovers - and all those secrets and lies.
Despite the backdrop of the war, there are still plenty of laughs to be had, particularly in the Dowager's frosty asides.
And the Downton setting is as sumptuous as ever.
This is still the sort of drama that makes you want to dive into your telly.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All change as battle begins
THE wartime setting meant a few changes on set at Highclere Castle in Berkshire, which doubles for Downton.
A huge cast - including many real-life amputees and war veterans - was enlisted to play injured soldiers.
And the actors' costumes became more austere - as they did when millions lost their lives in the trenches.
The female cast got to wear more practical fashions with slightly shorter hems and looser bodices, just as women of the day did to help them do their wartime jobs.
Jessica Brown Findlay said: "I love Sybil's nurse's uniform - I can run around a bit now!"
parkerman
30-07-2011, 08:36
Never mind all that - when's the sex scene?:D
Chloe O'brien
30-07-2011, 16:52
Never mind all that - when's the sex scene?:D
I bed the wedding will be Mr Carter and Mrs Hughes.
Downton Abbey's executive producer has suggested that the period drama could run for as many as six series.
Gareth Neame revealed the information while discussing the eight-part second run of the ITV programme, which will premiere this September and conclude with a Christmas special.
Forthcoming episodes of Downton Abbey, which depicts the lives of the Crawley family in the early 20th century, will feature sequences set in the First World War and a steamy sex scene - but Neame told The Sun that he was already thinking about future seasons of the show.
"I think it can continue for series four, five and six!" he claimed. "It could move up to the 1930s, as long as the audience wants it."
Series two of Downton Abbey was further teased by Brendan Coyle (Mr Bates), who confirmed that viewers could expect to witness both a wedding and a funeral upon its return to air.
"There are so many twists and turns," he said. "Things happen in this series that you definitely won't see coming. We were shocked every time we picked up a new script."
The second series of Downton Abbey, which features five new cast members including Iain Glen and Amy Nuttall, began filming in March.
:cheer:
The success of ITV1's excellent period drama Downton Abbey is hugely refreshing in these reality TV-dominated times.
Starring Hugh Bonneville and Dame Maggie Smith, Downton - an unexpected smash in 2010 - enjoyed massive ratings, gushing acclaim (on both sides of the Atlantic) and a haul of awards.
How is the Downton Abbey series two shoot progressing? See photos in our gallery
For many, Downton Abbey evokes memories of quality ITV period dramas of the past; classic Upstairs Downstairs, for example, and lavish 1980s epics The Jewel In The Crown and Brideshead Revisited.
The new series, which begins in September, sees the cast plunged into the horrors of the First World War.
Familiar names and faces are returning, but they will be joined by: former Emmerdale actress Amy Nuttall, Spooks star Iain Glen, Sons of Anarchy's Zoe Boyle, Holby Blue's Cal Macaninch, Spooks' Iain Glen, The Tudors' Maria Doyle-Kennedy and Mistresses actress Sharon Small.
Personally, I am very excited that definitive English gent Nigel Havers, lately seen in Coronation Street, has signed up as aristocrat Lord Hepworth.
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Downton Abbey was last autumn's TV hit, with its Edwardian drama offering an escapist antidote to austerity Britain. On Friday ITV previewed the drama at Highclere Castle, the show's Berkshire stately home setting. The first episode will open not with a witty but icy quip from the peerless Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham, played by Maggie Smith, but with the massive explosion of a shell in the battle of the Somme, where the heir to Downton, Matthew Crawley (played by Dan Stevens), is fighting.
The drama's producers hope that the darker wartime storylines, and the aristocratic ensemble dressing down in the "we're all in it together" clothing of wartime, will not deter the fans.
The first series finished in November with more than 10 million viewers, a huge figure in today's TV terms. ITV hopes for more of the same with an eight-part run starting in September, with a two-hour Christmas special to follow. "We have a lot to live up to," said executive producer Gareth Neame, who admitted to "second album nervousness" about series two, which is understood to have cost £12m to make.
"This time, the characters are in the middle of the war. That forces us to tell different stories. A world that was unassailable in the first series is now very much under threat."
Neame believes audiences "would have become bored if we had more stories of people stealing snuff boxes and stuff", a past storyline, and is keen to explore the breakdown in the social certainties brought on by the war.
The first series had ended on an August 1914 cliffhanger as Britain declared war on Germany. Among the young men in France at the start of series two is the scheming footman Thomas (Rob James-Collier), so traumatised by his experiences at the front that he has forgotten his feud with his fellow Downton servant, Bates, and seeks to find a way back to the house.
The war also changes things for those above stairs – the Earl of Granthan (Hugh Bonneville) is bitter that he is too old to serve. His daughter, Lady Sybil Crawley, who holds the distastefully modern idea that women should be allowed to vote, does the unladylike thing and becomes a nurse, giving her the melancholy line to deliver: "Sometimes it feels as if all men that I ever danced with are dead."
The drama is noticeable for its obsessive attention to detail. Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes and the production team had a long debate about whether aristocrats of the period – the second series takes us from 1916 to 1918 and the Christmas special takes place on New Year's Eve 1919 –would eat asparagus with their hands or a fork. In the end producers cut the asparagus up and pretended they were green beans, which they knew were eaten with a fork, so keen were they not to put a foot wrong.Five days of the 23-week shoot was done in replica Western Front trenches. "Because the show is so popular, we've a special role in teaching, particularly young people, about the war," said Neame. "ITV wanted more of the same [as the first series]. But because this is wartime, we had a duty to show the social impact of war."
One person who does not like the upheaval, unsurprisingly, is the dowager duchess. At one point, asked if she wants everything to return to the way it was before the war, she replies: "I certainly do, and as quickly as possible."
She will be grateful to learn that writer Julian Fellowes is already storylining scripts for a third series, which will take Downton Abbey into the devil-may-care, swinging 1920s.
For millions of viewers, the romances, in-fighting and quintessential British way of the Crawley family and their servants made Downton Abbey a must-watch.
But the idyll will be shattered in the programme’s second series, as the First World War tears the characters’ lives apart.
And, to give viewers a more authentic experience, producers have used veteran soldiers and amputees to show the ‘harsh reality’ of conflict.
Realistic: The new series of Downton Abbey is set during World War I and will use veteran soldiers and amputees to make the war scenes more authentic
Audiences will see graphic depictions of the Great War, with Falklands hero Simon Weston – who suffered 46 per cent burns to his body after ship Sir Galahad was bombed in 1982 – having acted as an adviser on the series.
More...
Decadent angel of Downton: The sexual adventuress, extravagant hostess who blew her inheritance, turning her stately home into a war hospital
The 49-year-old instructed the actors on dealing with explosions, mustard gas attacks, bullet and shrapnel injuries and the subsequent issues of disfigurement.
He told the Daily Mail: ‘For me personally, it is only right and fitting that people who have seen and experienced war are used to help portray it in film or television. Who could know and show better what it would be like than people who have faced battle, or lost a limb?
‘I think in these kinds of dramas it helps give an idea of the harsh reality of what it is like.’
In the new series, Downton Abbey becomes a convalescence home for the wounded, sick and infirm, with scenes at the stately home featuring many of the amputee actors.
Producer Liz Trubridge said: ‘We had incredible extras. Some of [those] used in the war scenes were ex-soldiers. Some of the amputees were war veterans, or people that had lost limbs in accidents. Others were real aficionados [of the First World War].
‘We were very fortunate that we came across a wonderful man called Taff Gillingham, who owns a set of trenches just off Ipswich, so we filmed the battle scenes there.’
The team used specialist agencies Amputees in Action and VisABLE People, and also worked with Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes on the episodes.
One extra, Simon Green, 44, who lost his arm in a motorbike accident 18 years ago, said: ‘It was fun to take part.
‘I get blown up in the trenches. I’m not sure how bloody it will be but I think it is a more realistic way to do those kind of scenes.’
In the series, the Abbey acts as a convalescent home for the wounded, with many amputee actors taking part in scenes filmed there
Fellow amputee Jonathan Clipton, also 44, said working on the series had been a good way to network and share experiences.
‘We have all been through a lot and this is a positive, fun, way of getting on with life,’ he added.
ITV has increased the show’s run to eight episodes, up from the initial series’ seven.
Creator Julian Fellowes said: ‘The heart of this series is how everyone copes with the country being at war.
‘None of them is unaffected. All of them change. And death does not entirely pass Downton Abbey by.’
He added that the new series would also show women’s efforts to keep the country going while the men were away.
The original series, which was set in 1912, was a huge hit and has been shown in more than 100 countries.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are said to be fans of the show, which stars Hugh Bonneville and Dame Maggie Smith.
ITV has revealed there will also be a Christmas special, which will be set after the war in December 1919.
A third series, expected to be set in the early 1920s, is being planned.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2023490/TV-roles-maimed-veterans-Downton-recreates-First-World-War.html#ixzz1URQGdZQr
Downton Abbey writer Julian Fellowes has claimed that the BBC would have ruined the popular period drama.
The Oscar-winning scriptwriter praised ITV for resisting the temptation to meddle with the show and allowing him to fully execute his vision.
"ITV wanted us to make our own show. That wouldn't have happened at the BBC," he told the Edinburgh TV Festival. "So I raise a glass to ITV."
Fellowes went on to describe Downton Abbey as "a posh soap opera", making comparisons with one of ITV's other highly-rated serial dramas.
"I live for Corrie," he confessed. "Like them, we tell endless stories about people to whom things happen until the audience doesn't want to see them any more."
Fellowes, who recently completed work on a new drama about the Titanic, has admitted in the past to getting upset by criticism of Downton Abbey.
The show will return to ITV1 later this year.
Sunday, 18 September 2011, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
SHORT SYNOPSIS:
The Great War unsettles life at Downton and Isobel's surprising news about Matthew rocks the family further. New maid, Ethel ruffles O'Brien's feathers and Bates returns with life changing news for Anna.
:cheer:
tammyy2j
05-09-2011, 12:41
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fwab6S6IWA&feature=player_embedded
Downton Abbey will air in the same timeslot as the last series of Spooks, it has emerged.
The BBC will schedule the spy show in the prestigious Sunday 9pm hour on BBC One, where it will go head-to-head with ITV1's hit period drama.
However, a BBC spokesperson played down the clash, stating: "Downton and Spooks are very different shows and offer a real alternative for audiences.
"This is the last ever series of Spooks and we wanted to celebrate this and make it a special event for viewers in the Sunday 9pm slot.
"It is not unusual for drama to go up against drama here, for example, David Tennant's Single Father did last year and ITV1's Vera was up against BBC One's Exile earlier this year."
Downton Abbey's first series in 2010 averaged a colossal 9m in the ratings last year, while the ninth series of the long-running Spooks took around 5m per episode.
Chloe O'brien
08-09-2011, 20:17
Rubbish there are loads of viewers who will want to watch both these quality dramas. It's okay if you have Sky or Cable tv, but what if you only have council telly.
If you have freeview, you could watch Spooks at 9 and Downton Abbey at 10 on ITV1+1, which is what I plan to do. It's really silly putting two such good, homegrown dramas up against each other.
Chloe O'brien
08-09-2011, 20:26
It's cool I have cable and plan to watch Spooks then catch up with Downton Abbey on ITV+1 at 10pm. I'm just hacked off that they have put the two shows up against each other.
Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes has admitted that he should not have got "the hump" when viewers pointed out a string of historical inaccuracies in the hit period drama.
The 62-year-old has been filming a second series of Downton Abbey with Hugh Bonneville and Dame Maggie Smith among its cast, after the first became a ratings hit, attracting 11 million viewers for the final episode.
But viewers spotted apparent anachronisms - such as the use of the word boyfriend, the sight of a TV aerial fixed to a home, a modern-style conservatory and double yellow lines on a road - in the first series.
Fellowes, the drama's writer and executive producer, had lashed out at those highlighting the inaccuracies, saying: "The real problem is with people who are insecure socially."
He added: "They think to show how smart they are by picking holes in the programme to promote their own poshness and to show that their knowledge is greater than your knowledge."
Now he has told the Radio Times that it was "sloppy" to have let the TV aerial slip through in the ITV1 drama.
The Oscar-winning Gosford Park screenwriter said complainants were not always correct, citing the use of the word boyfriend, which he says was in print in 1889, so would have been in speech before that.
"But," he told the Radio Times, "I thought I behaved rather badly by getting the hump."
Asked whether he anticipated the drama's popularity, Fellowes said: "I thought we'd made a good show and people would enjoy it, but it was extraordinary. We were playing to something like a third of the adult population.
"I mean, nobody could expect that level of success, except for Simon Cowell. It was completely mad."
PA
Sunday, 25 September 2011, 9:00PM - 10:15PM
Drama
April 1917
With most of the male staff serving at the front, Carson, finds himself under pressure to ensure the duties are carried out to his exacting standard, which causes him undue strain. Much to his horror he finds himself forced to accept help in the dining room from the female staff.
With Bates gone, Robert has hired a new valet, Lang (Cal Macaninch), who has just returned from the war. Something is not quite right with him and uncharacteristically it is O’Brien who shows a more compassionate side of her nature when she is the only one to recognise the problem.
However, O’Brien’s true nature is never far from the surface and she is determined to get her old ally Thomas a job back at Downton by whatever means she can, even if it means manipulating her Ladyship.
William is delighted when he receives an important letter and Mrs Patmore learns some devastating news about her nephew that rocks her to the core.
Having returned from the front under dubious circumstances Thomas begins work alongside Lady Sybil in the local hospital. When a patient comes in suffering from gas blindness Thomas finds himself becoming attached to the handsome young Lieutenant. But his admiration soon turns to despair when events take a turn for the worse.
With Bates out of the picture the Crawley’s butler Molesley (Kevin Doyle) takes an interest in Anna. Will she be tempted to try to find love again?
Having learnt to drive, Edith offers her services to one of the estates’ tenants who no longer has anyone to drive his tractor or tend the land. Finally Edith has a purpose and can contribute to the war effort. However, this fulfilment is short-lived and she is bitterly disappointed when she hears suddenly that her services are no longer required!
In the trenches, Matthew (now a Captain) is informed of his temporary transfer back to England for a recruitment drive in the north. A visit to Downton will certainly be on the cards but new visitors to the house will open old wounds for Matthew.
Meanwhile Carson tells Mary that if she still loves Matthew she has a duty to tell him before it is too late, but will Mary take his advice?
Elsewhere, Rosamund (Samantha Bond) and Violet take a dislike to Sir Richard Carlisle and after hearing him argue with Matthew’s fiancé Lavinia in the gardens, Rosamund endeavours to discover just how they are acquainted.
Looking forward to the new series. It's nice to have some decent viewing.:thumbsup: I know not every one has catch up TV. and I player. :( ITV+1 is good. At least we have the opportunity to catch up if we miss a program. Years ago, we would have just missed them.:(
DOWNTON Abbey actress Amy Nuttall has revealed her employment with the Crawley family is to be short-lived.
The redhead is to join the series as naughty housemaid Ethel Parks — who causes ructions in the house that lead to her downfall.
The 29-year-old features in the second outing of the hit ITV1 period drama, where the storyline begins on the eve of World War I.
The actress — who played Chloe Atkinson in Emmerdale — joins the posh family's staff as a know-it-all servant and quickly makes herself unpopular within the aristocratic household.
Amy describes Downton as "the best job I have worked on" — despite five years as Chloe and a career in musicals that saw her play Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady.
Amy admitted it was not easy to join a hit show like Downton with strong established characters.
The drama returns to ITV1 on Sunday night featuring Dame Maggie Smith as Violet, the Dowager Countess of Grantham.
She is part of a family with a history of nobility who are kept afloat by a "downstairs army" of staff.
Amy said of making the series: "It was thrilling and terrifying — a mixture of emotions.
"I felt like a proper new girl on her first day at school with an already close-knit family that have made the series so successful.
"But they have all welcomed me with open arms.
"Added to that, on my very first day I was filming a scene with Maggie Smith which made it all the more terrifying."
But despite her initial nerves she was full of praise for the star.
She said of screen veteran Maggie: "She's lovely. It was more about me being in awe of the people I was working with.
"She has said some lovely things and is definitely the mother of the cast so it's been great fun."
TV Biz will not reveal how Amy's character Ethel comes a cropper — but she will NOT be returning for series three.
Coy Amy said: "I am not optioned for a third series, only the second, so that might give you an indication of where my character goes."
Meanwhile genealogists have discovered that Dame Maggie herself comes from a family who had a servant. Her paternal grandmother was Kate Gregory, who as a child worked as a shoe-machinist. Her great-grandparents Charles Nathaniel Gregory and Susan Jones worked as a shoe-maker and shoe-fitter.
The 1891 Census reveals that the family had a 19-year-old servant, Kate Rogers, who lived with them in their Newcastle home and provided general domestic duties.
Rhoda Breakell, head of Genesreunited.co.uk, said: "Life for Downton's Violet Crawley may not be a bed of roses with the trials and tribulations of her family, but she receives a lot of support from her servants.
"It is interesting that Dame Maggie Smith's ancestors also had a servant in their household.
"Perhaps it is her family history that the actress draws upon for inspiration in the role.
"The comparison also demonstrates how it was not only the upper classes and those who lived in large English stately homes who had servants, but the middle classes as well. Many of us today would probably be surprised to find our ancestors had domestic help."
- ITV has dedicated most of Sunday to Downton Abbey. The last episode of the first series will be shown at 3.05pm so fans can watch its dramatic conclusion before settling down to some series specials.
Countrywise: The Real Downton Abbey at 6pm takes a look at the real star of the show, the amazing stately home.
At 9pm the new series begins, set two years on from the first, with the family facing the looming spectre of war.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/3814861/Naughty-Ethel-Parks-has-Downton-Abbey-downfall.html
Chloe O'brien
17-09-2011, 02:12
So Amy's character dies then at some point? I will need to watch this at 10pm as at 9 I will be tuned into Spooks.
parkerman
17-09-2011, 18:50
I will need to watch this at 10pm as at 9 I will be tuned into Spooks.
Me too. It's the best way to do it; watch BBC live and record ITV because you can cut out the adverts then!
The creator of Downton Abbey has revealed that he is in love with Lady Mary Crawley.
Julian Fellowes, who recently brought back the costume drama after achieving an audience of 11 million viewers for the last episode of the first series, said that the character played by Michelle Dockery appeals to him because she is tough and almost "cold".
When asked if he is in love with Mary, he told the Radio Times: "Yes. I like strong, good-looking women and there's something about - not coldness, exactly, but there's something about the lack of needing to be liked which, when it's coupled with very good looks and confidence, is, I think, tremendously attractive."
Fellowes also admitted that he "loves" Bates, saying of the mysterious link between him and the Earl: "I'm sort of deferring clarifying their shared past because I'm enjoying that. [It will be] more touching than sinister."
He said that there is "lots" in store for Bates and Anna, adding: "The main thing is the war and how war changes them all, even those at home, and they all develop as people and become more self-aware. Unless you have a nuclear bomb go off, there's always an opening [for another series]."
Fellowes also revealed that in the next season of Downton Abbey, Edith will "become nicer", explaining that "she finds a sort of kindness in herself, as well as a role in life".
Me too. It's the best way to do it; watch BBC live and record ITV because you can cut out the adverts then!
Or switch over to ITV+1 at ten O'clock and then you won't miss the adverts :D
Episode: 3 of 8
Sunday, 2 October 2011, 9:00PM - 10:15PM
Downton is being prepared as a convalescent home for wounded officers and Isobel Crawley is driving Cora mad. O’Brien is eager to ensure that Cora is recognised as the boss of Downton and suggests she needs an ally in the hospital – Thomas. A move that doesn’t go down well below stairs especially with Carson.
The first convalescent group arrive, as does Matthew, who is home on leave. Matthew suggests he bring his General, Sir Herbert Strutt to inspect the new convalescent home.
Elsewhere, new housemaid Ethel flirts with a young officer, Major Bryant, incurring the wrath of Mrs Hughes in the process.
Violet is certain that Mary is still in love with Matthew and is determined to undo Matthew’s engagement. Together with Rosamund she discovers that Lavinia is hiding a secret from Matthew and is somehow acquainted with Sir Richard Carlisle which she is determined to get to the bottom of.
In the village Anna believes she sees Bates. With Lady Mary’s help she discovers Bates is working in a pub and surprises him. Ever-proud Bates refuses Anna’s pleas to return to Downton but reveals that he is close to being free from Vera forever.
Below stairs William visits Daisy the night before he heads off to active duty. He has a question to ask but how will Daisy respond? A random remark causes Mrs Patmore untold heartache and Branson is wrong-footed upon discovering he is discharged from active service thwarting his plans to be a conscientious objector.
However, he doesn’t give up that easily and plots to disrupt the dinner that Lord Grantham is giving in honour of General Strutt. But will his plans succeed?
Chloe O'brien
19-09-2011, 22:44
Oh I have a terrible feeling young William is going to be killed when he goes to war.
It was an irritation which would have been entirely alien to the wartime inhabitants of Downton Abbey.
Many 21st-century viewers, however, said the much-anticipated return of ITV1’s flagship period drama was ruined by the colossal number of advert breaks.
They were left furious after the commercial broadcaster crammed a quarter of the programme’s 90-minute slot with advertising and cross-promotion.
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/09/19/article-2039375-0DF8F58C00000578-654_468x433.jpg
Prize-winners: Cast members Elizabeth McGovern, Joanne Froggatt and Michelle Dockery at the Emmys on Sunday
ITV had promised audiences ‘bumper’ extended episodes of the Sunday night show, which stars Dame Maggie Smith and Hugh Bonneville and added to its list of awards this weekend by winning four Emmys, including best mini-series.
But in the first programme alone there were 23 minutes of promotion with only 67 minutes of the drama – that’s one minute of adverts for every three of Downton Abbey.
Media regulator Ofcom said there was also a complaint about the suitability of the advertising, with sponsor Aviva promoting life insurance while Downton depicted scenes of soldiers dying in the First World War trenches.
ITV had effectively sidestepped strict rules limiting advertising to 12 minutes an hour by including ‘sponsorship’ and promotion of other shows in each break. These cross-promotions are not included in the official tally.
There were also several minutes of adverts and promotion before and after the show. It is estimated a 30-second advertising slot during the show would have been sold for as much as £100,000.
A peak of nine million watched Downton return for its second series – almost double the audience for BBC1’s rival drama Spooks.
But ITV’s victory was bittersweet as viewers took to internet messageboards to complain about the level of advertising.
The channel admitted yesterday it had also received complaints directly and Ofcom said it had received one formal complaint about the level of advertising.
One viewer said online: ‘Loved the first programme but I was angry at all the flaming adverts which told their own story.’
Another said: ‘I was just getting into it and another break. That shouldn’t be allowed.’
ITV can show an average of eight minutes of advertising per hour from 6pm to 11pm. The channel is allowed a maximum of 12 minutes per clock hour during that period, but must still hit the average.
On Sunday there were five ‘centre-breaks’ between the beginning and end of Downton. These lasted a maximum of four minutes and ten seconds and featured up to ten adverts for companies such as John Lewis, Tesco, Ford, Boots, Waitrose and Talk Talk.
On top of that ITV added promotions for its own shows, including Doc Martin and DCI Banks.
ITV said: ‘We followed the same pattern as other 90-minute dramas. We are a commercial broadcaster.’
Viewers also accused Downton Abbey, written by Julian Fellowes, of historical inaccuracy after a character used the phrase ‘As if’. They claimed the phrase used by Mrs Bates was ‘jarring’
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/09/20/article-2039375-0DFD6FE900000578-939_233x341.jpg
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2039375/Downton-Abbey-One-minute-adverts-programme.html#ixzz1YS1SOl2V
A SUPERBITCH has turned the idyllic world of Downton Abbey on its head — and the actress playing her says being loathed by viewers is GREAT.
Maria Doyle Kennedy, 46, joined ITV1's hit on Sunday as the cold-hearted estranged wife of valet John Bates.
Her evil character, Vera, arrived threatening to ruin the name of Bates' aristocratic bosses unless he leaves both Downton and his new love, housemaid Anna.
Dublin-born Maria said: "She's such a terrible bitch — and bitches are the best to play.
"I've got some awful things to say like: 'Isn't this tea lovely? And, by the way, I'm going to wreck your life completely.'"
Millions of viewers saw Bates, played by Brendan Coyle, promise to wed Anna (Joanne Froggatt) once he is free in the second series' first episode.
Then Vera turned up after learning Bates has inherited money from his mother.
She threatened to make Lady Mary's secret romp with a Turkish diplomat — who died in her bed — public unless he returns to her.
Maria, who has also starred in The Tudors and The Commitments, said: "I was filming and they said, 'How do you feel now that you're about to become the most hated woman in Britain?'
"I just think 'You have to remember it's not me — it's Vera!'"
And co-star Brendan, 47, reckons the show needs a villain.
He said: "While we'd love for Anna and Bates to be happy, it's much more fun to play the drama."
MARIA will also be seen next year in ITV1 series Titanic, written by Downton creator Julian Fellowes.
Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery has joked that some of the rest of the cast get jealous of her beautiful costumes.
Michelle plays the Earl's eldest daughter Lady Mary Crawley and is always decked out in beautiful gowns, jewels and hats, but told the Daily Mirror some of her co-stars who play the servants - and always wear the same uniform - are envious of her clothes.
Michelle said: "There's a lot of envy from the girls who play the downstairs staff."
She added: "I'll walk past the make-up trailer as they are having their hair done and I'll be in yet another outfit, maybe my third different one of the day, and Joanne (Froggatt who plays head housemaid Anna) will say to me, 'Oh, Michelle you look sooo nice, we never get to wear anything like that'."
Michelle, 29, also revealed that on-set historian and advisor Alastair Bruce sometimes reprimands the actors if their manners are not in keeping with those of Edwardian times.
She said: "He'll pull us on matters of etiquette, how to walk, how to sit, which knife to use, it's absolutely fascinating."
PA
moonstorm
27-09-2011, 08:30
Perdy, get your glasses out! I think you meant to put this in the Upstairs Downstairs thread and not the Downton Abbey thread lol??
Downton AbbeyEpisode: 4 of 8
Sunday, 9 October 2011, 9:00PM - 10:15PM
Preparations are underway for a concert at Downton, to keep spirits up among the convalescing men.
Violet quizzes Mary about her match with Carlisle, but Mary won’t be drawn. She is determined that it is time for her to move on from Matthew.
The tension continues between Cora and Isobel who both take an active role in running the busy convalescent home but matters come to a head when Isobel discovers she has been over-ruled by Cora.
After the near disaster of the General’s visit, Branson has promised Carson not to stage any more protests so that he can stay at Downton. But what are his true motives for wanting to stay?
Robert receives a letter from Carlisle, which causes him concern and forces an uncomfortable conversation between him and Mary.
Matthew is at the front with William as his valet, and is due home on leave soon but are caught by the enemy whilst trying to return to their lines during a patrol. Can they make it back safely?
Back in the servants hall Thomas is enjoying his position as Sergeant in charge of the hospital and revels in the fact that he is no longer under Carson’s control.
Robert talks to Anna about Bates’s return to the area. Learning that Bates feels he left Downton on bad terms, Robert resolves to visit him but can he persuade Bates to return?
Mrs Bird and Molesley find themselves at a loose end and decide to do their own bit for the war effort. When O’Brien finds out she takes little time informing her mistress what the Crawley staff are up to.
Daisy is concerned that William is late for his promised visit, and asks Edith for help. She alerts Robert who tries to find out what has happened. A late night phone call to Downton brings the answer, much to Robert’s distress.
In the servants’ quarters Mrs Hughes makes a shocking discovery that ends in tears for one member of staff.
Perdy, get your glasses out! I think you meant to put this in the Upstairs Downstairs thread and not the Downton Abbey thread lol??
Made an appointment with optician lol :)
Michelle Dockery has revealed that there will be "a wedding, a funeral and a sex scene" in the new series of Downton Abbey.
However, the actress hinted that her alter ego Lady Mary will only feature in one of the three scenes in the Julian Fellowes period drama.
She revealed to Metro: "There's a wedding, a funeral and a sex scene. I'm in two - no, wait. I'm in one of those.
"The thing is, I can see people will think that I am involved in a particular one of those three, but I'm not. People will be really surprised.
"The incident with the Turkish diplomat comes back to haunt Mary in the second series. I can't tell you why, but it could literally bring down the whole of the Crawley family - it's huge."
Downton Abbey, which also stars Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Smith, returned a fortnight ago with huge ratings for ITV1 and continues this Sunday at 9pm.
Rob James-Collier has said that he enjoys playing "evil" Thomas Barrow in Downton Abbey.
The former footman-turned-soldier has returned to Downton after his self-inflicted injury at war. Speaking to TV Times, the actor admitted that people affectionately boo him for the character's actions.
"The devil always has the better tunes!" James-Collier quipped, revealing that he had been bought an espresso coffee by a fan of the character.
"A man and his family bought me one for being evil. Evil is rewarded in this country! Basically I'd ordered it, and he paid for it! I should have ordered something else."
James-Collier continued: "I do have a bit of Thomas banter, too, with the ladies in the bank and post office of my local village. They boo me when I come in! But it's all affectionate and nice because it's good that your character has an effect on people."
The former Coronation Street star added: "Thomas definitely isn't dull. They don't actually believe I'm like him though, thankfully."
Downton Abbey continues on Sunday at 9pm on ITV1.
ITV could win the Christmas Day ratings war for the first time in a decade with a feature-length special of Downton Abbey.
This year’s festive contest between the two major channels is expected to be even more hotly fought than usual, with BBC bosses desperately trying to decide what to pitch against the hit costume drama. Their attempt to derail the current series by running Spooks against it backfired earlier this month.
Now BBC1 schedulers must work out which weapons to use against the 90-minute special, which stars Hugh Bonneville as the Earl of Grantham.
Contenders include The Royle Family, a Christmas favourite which pulled in a respectable 10 million viewers last year.
Or the Beeb may rely on EastEnders – last year it drew the biggest audience of the day with 11.4 million. The yuletide plot will feature Pat Evans perishing in a house fire. :eek: That is meant to be a secret!! :D
Another possibility is a three-part special of Great Expectations, starring Ray Winstone.
If ITV bosses decide to screen Downton earlier than its normal 9pm slot, it could even find itself up against Doctor Who.
The BBC traditionally triumphs on Christmas Day – last year it screened eight out of 10 of the most watched shows. During peaktime hours, 6pm-10.30pm, the BBC got 39% of the audience, compared with ITV’s 23%.
A TV insider said: “A feature-length episode of Downton Abbey is likely to skew the figures considerably in ITV’s favour.”
Last night an ITV spokesman said that the Christmas Day scheduling was yet to be confirmed, saying only: “We are delighted that Downton Abbey will be part of ITV’s Christmas line-up.”
ITV has beaten the BBC in the Christmas Day peaktime ratings just twice in the past 27 years. In 1999 two editions of Who Wants to be a Christmas Millionaire? helped it to a narrow victory over BBC1, which suffered without former favourites Men Behaving Badly and Only Fools And Horses.
The following year the channel was again pipped by ITV1 after fewer viewers than anticipated watched Titanic.
Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/tv/2011/09/30/downton-abbey-could-help-itv-to-beat-bbc-in-christmas-ratings-war-for-first-time-in-years-115875-23455694/#ixzz1ZPpcGzyR
parkerman
30-09-2011, 19:37
Perhaps they should put on the Morecambe and Wise Show followed by the Two Ronnies. Always worked for the BBC in my day!
ITV1's hit drama series Downton Abbey has seen its audience slide in recent weeks amid criticism from viewers over excessive advertising breaks in the Sunday evening show.
Downton Abbey's second series launched on September 18 with nearly 9 million viewers, but dropped to just over 8.7m for the third episode last Sunday.
The ratings decline is relatively minor, but it is in stark contrast to the show's steady rise over the last series and comes despite the programme enjoying recent awards success at the US Emmys.
The Daily Mail reports that viewers are upset over the amount of advertising breaks in the drama, particularly that the final part of one episode lasted only three minutes, including a highlights clip of next week's broadcast.
One viewer complained: "Nice of ITV to broadcast a bit of Downton Abbey in between the ad breaks."
Another added: "These bloody adverts drive you mad. Each one is over four minutes long and the last one was five minutes from the end."
Viewers have also complained that the launch episode of Downton Abbey was marred by a series of advertising idents run by insurance giant Aviva.
The new eight-part series of Downton Abbey features a 90-minute episode at the start and finish, with the middle episodes being 75 minutes. It is estimated that a 30-second ad slot during the programme would have cost up to £100,000.
An ITV spokesman denied that viewers have been put off by the adverts during Downton Abbey, pointing out that the show had a 36% share of the audience this Sunday, roughly the same as the previous two episodes.
He also claimed that the unexpected, record-breaking hot weather so far in October has led to TV viewing being down across all channels over the weekend.
"While the record breaking hot weather affected viewing to all television channels over the weekend, last Sunday's Downton Abbey was watched by exactly the same share of the overall television audience as the opening two episodes," the spokesman added.
"We're delighted that more viewers than ever are enjoying events from Downton with audience figures for the first three episodes this autumn up 20% on the first series."
Chloe O'brien
09-10-2011, 00:22
Perhaps they should put on the Morecambe and Wise Show followed by the Two Ronnies. Always worked for the BBC in my day!
Don't forget to add a bit of Tommy Cooper to the mix as well.
parkerman
10-10-2011, 20:15
Don't forget to add a bit of Tommy Cooper to the mix as well.
Now you're talking. If only, Chloe, if only....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTY6TxXsK-o&feature=related"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTY6TxXsK-o&feature=related
Sunday, 23 October 2011, 9:00PM - 10:15PM
1918
A wounded Canadian officer comes to Downton to recuperate and unsettles everything. He confides his secret to Lady Edith but what are his motives? Where will this leave the family?
Robert declares that the ceasefire will begin on the 11th November. Isobel has plans for Downton to continue to help the war’s wounded in some way but Cora has other ideas.
Thomas continues his scheming, this time with encouragement from Mrs Patmore.
Elsewhere below stairs, Bates receives a phonecall, which sees him depart for London. With Robert’s warning to remain calm ringing in his ears, does Bates heed the Earl’s caution not to lose his temper with Vera?
Ethel is struggling to look after her baby. Mrs Hughes has been helping Ethel until she is discovered by Carson.
Chloe O'brien
11-10-2011, 14:31
You know me I'm not one to have a weep over the telly, but I admit I had a bit of a wobbily moment on Sunday night when Mary and Edith were singing and in walked Matthew and William.
moonstorm
11-10-2011, 15:36
OOOhhh, my eyes filled up too Chloe!
Chloe O'brien
11-10-2011, 15:41
OOOhhh, my eyes filled up too Chloe!
I had my hand over my mouth saying oh God he's alright :cheer:
moonstorm
11-10-2011, 19:13
God what big softies we are!
Julian Fellowes has suggested that Downton Abbey will end in 2012.
Speaking to the Radio Times, the creator of the hit ITV1 show declared that he has always planned to write three series.
The writer explained: "The original concept in my optimistic head was for the first series to start towards the end of the Edwardian era, the second to be set during World War I and the third in the 1920s.
"In the '20s there are big changes, new inventions, different expectations I can't wait to explore."
Fellowes also revealed that he is confident ITV will recommission the drama for another series, adding: "I would like to think that we will be back next year."
According to a recent report, ITV will air Downton Abbey's planned festive special on Christmas Day.
Ooh, it's an emotional visit to Downton Abbey this week. After the last episode's close call, William and Matthew are back at the Front. And what will happen to Ethel now that she's gone and got pregnant?
You'll just have to wait until Sunday to find out, but if you want some hints in the meantime then read on for our ten teasers about the instalment...
1. The Dowager Countess sure knows how to get things done. She even uses a telephone (and it's a sight to behold).
2. "I'm ashamed. I'm so ashamed."
3. O'Brien might just regret her meddling and scheming for once.
4. Things are so bad that the Earl of Grantham almost lets slip a profanity. Oo-er!
5. An engagement is announced. Separately, a wedding is planned. And somewhere else, there's a break-up.
6. "Sometimes a hard sacrifice must be made for a future that's worth having."
7. Mrs Hughes might have softened a bit towards Ethel. Not much, mind.
8. "I don't think asking permission is his strongest suit."
9. Say hello to a new housemaid.
10. There are tears. And lots of them.
Chloe O'brien
16-10-2011, 01:08
I was looking on the Radio times website to see what was on next weekend and had a peek at next week's episode. Wish I hadn't bothered :crying:
Sunday, 30 October 2011, 9:00PM - 10:15PM
As the storms of war clear will life ever be the same again at Downton? A new development stuns the family. How long can Sybil and Branson keep their secret? Carlisle puts Anna in a difficult position, Bates is reeling from the news about Vera and Thomas embarks on a new money making scheme.
Chloe O'brien
18-10-2011, 19:44
Its official I hate Julian Fellows. How could he cause Mary and Matthew so much heartache. For God's how can she not just tell him she loves him and put me out of my misery :D. And as for William and Daisy well we knew it was going to end in tears. There has to be some happiness going to happen this series.
Sunday, 6 November 2011, 9:00PM - 10:30PM
Series finale:
With the wedding approaching there’s excitement in the air but will Branson’s plans rattle everyone? Spanish Flu reaches Downton and a desperate Thomas looks for a way to re-establish himself.
Ethel faces a dilemma when the Bryants return with a heartbreaking proposition and a decisive Anna forces Bates to think about their future.
The inhabitants of Downton Abbey may have survived the horrors of the Great War, but now they find themselves at the centre of a new life and death struggle.
In the drama's emotionally-charged finale, to be screened next Sunday, the Spanish flu pandemic that killed more than 50 million people between 1918 and 1920 causes heartbreak for the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants.
The drama's ten million fans will be on tenterhooks as several characters, including Cora, Countess of Grantham, played by Elizabeth McGovern; Matthew Crawley's fiancée Lavinia Swire, played by Zoe Boyle; and Carson the butler, played by Jim Carter, all fall victim to the potentially fatal condition.
The Mail on Sunday has seen the last episode of the hit ITV drama but has decided to keep the precise details of the plot under wraps.
But the storyline, which draws upon the real-life history of Highclere Castle, where the show is filmed, means life at Downton Abbey will be transformed forever.
The illness first makes its presence felt as both the upstairs and downstairs inhabitants of the household are preparing for a dinner party.
Robert Crawley, the Earl of Grantham, played by Hugh Bonneville, bemoans the fact that 'everyone is falling like ninepins'.
And Downton's housekeeper Mrs Hughes, played by Phyllis Logan, remarks that 'we are quite the hospital again', in reference to the fact that Downton Abbey looked after injured officers during the war.
But some of the most poignant scenes involve Sarah O'Brien, Cora's devoted lady's maid, played by Siobhan Finneran, who stages a bedside vigil for her sick mistress.
Cora's exposure to the illness is similar to that of Highclere's onetime chatelaine Almina, the fifth Countess of Carnarvon, who was struck down in 1918.
Almina contracted the condition while nursing wounded officers in a London hospital that she ran. Although she subsequently recovered, some of her patients and high society associates were not so lucky.
The current Countess of Carnarvon has revealed Almina's infection in her book Lady Almina And The Real Downton Abbey: The Lost Legacy Of Highclere Castle.
She told The Mail on Sunday: 'Almina did contract Spanish flu while she was in close contact with some of her wounded patients in London.
'Many of those men in her care were infected with the condition and she did not appreciate that her close proximity to them was also placing her in danger. People did not know so much about those things then.'
She added: 'Almina was particularly vulnerable because she was left so weak and exhausted by her work looking after the wounded. She was tireless on their behalf.'
It is not clear how the illness arrives at Downton Abbey, but Cora came into contact with wounded officers when Downton was a wartime convalescent home.
The Spanish flu was an influenza pandemic that broke out in June 1918 and claimed anywhere between 50 million and 100 million lives around the world.
More than 500 million people were infected in total and the pandemic left its mark on such far-flung destinations as the Arctic and the remote Pacific Islands.
The disease, which earned its name after first making its mark on Southern
Europe, was not caused by the First World War, but did spread rapidly because so many men had spent so much time in close proximity with each other.
The powerful storyline in the series finale may appease those fans who feel the show has turned into a high class soap opera.
Some viewers feel that ITV made a mistake in commissioning a second season so quickly after the success of the first last year. They say the rapid turnaround means that some of the plot lines are bordering on the ridiculous.
One viewer wrote: ‘It has become Dynasty with hats, hasn’t it?’
But viewers can expect even more heartbreak with the screening of a Christmas special which includes a funeral and a wedding.
The funeral scene has already been shot at St Mary’s Church in the Oxfordshire village of Bampton, which provides Downton’s locations outside the Abbey.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2055226/Who-die-Downton-Abbey-Spanish-flu-crisis.html#ixzz1cFvZehPs
Downton Abbey has been picked up for a third series by ITV. :cheer::cheer:
The hit period drama will return for another run of eight episodes, written by show creator Julian Fellowes.
The third series will be set in 1920 and 1921, and will cover a period of 18 months in the lives of the Crawley family and the servants who work for them.
"I am extremely grateful to ITV for this," said Fellowes. "I have grown very fond of my Downton family and I certainly do not want to say goodbye to them quite yet."
The second series of Downton - which concludes this Sunday on ITV1 - has achieved a consolidated average of 11.5 million viewers, making it the most popular drama series on UK television for over ten years.
"We're absolutely delighted to be bringing Downton Abbey back for a third series, as we follow the inhabitants of Downton as they move into the roaring '20s," said ITV's director of drama commissioning Laura Mackie.
"It's rare to find a drama that the audience connects with so strongly and we're extremely proud to have commissioned a series that has become such a phenomenon."
Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Penelope Wilton, Jessica Findlay Brown, Lesley Nicol, Rob James-Collier, Joanne Froggatt and Brendan Coyle are among the show's stars.
Downton Abbey will also return for a festive special, to air on ITV1 this Christmas
Great news, and I'm already looking forward to the Christmas special.
The character to die in this Sunday's Downton Abbey was mistakenly let slip yesterday.
A Spanish influenza pandemic spreads through the Crawley family as the second series reaches its conclusion this weekend.
However, ITV has inadvertently revealed the identity of the departing character by releasing a full cast list for the third serieson its website with one notable omission.
The broadcaster has previously confirmed that the period drama's leads Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery and Maggie Smith would return next year.
Cora, the Countess of Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern), Lavinia Swire (Zoe Boyle) and Carson the Butler (Jim Carter) were all revealed to have the condition in last week's penultimate edition.
The Downton Abbey finale airs this Sunday at 9pm on ITV1.
The following are returning
“Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Penelope Wilton, Dan Stevens, Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, Jessica Frown Findlay, Jim Carter, Phyllis Logan, Sophie McShera, Lesley Nicol, Rob James-Collier, Siobhan Finneran, Joanne Froggatt, Brendan Coyle, Allen Leech and Amy Nuttall all return for the third series, which will be written once again by Julian Fellowes and retains the same production team.”
So that means LAVINIA Dies
parkerman
05-11-2011, 09:25
How convenient!
Things are about to get steamy at the Grantham country house in Downton Abbey.
Viewers will see the Earl of Grantham commit the ultimate betrayal as he shares a steamy kiss with his maid, Jane, on Sunday night.
The second series of the popular period drama will go out with a bang as fans will finally see if Robert Crawley - played by Hugh Bonneville - decides to continue their tryst in the bedroom.
Passionate: The Earl Robert Crawley finds himself in a steamy clinch with his maid Jane on this Sunday's episode of Downton Abbey
Last week the Earl was seen kissing Jane - played by Clare Calbraith - for the first time before quickly apologising, but as his wife Cora lays ill it seems he just can't help himself in the season finale.
'For Lord Grantham to not only cheat on his wife, but with somebody from a lower social class, would be the ultimate betrayal,' said a show insider.
But this won't be the end of the forbidden love affair as ITV bosses revealed yesterday that Downton Abbey will be returning for a third series.
Ultimate betrayal: The Earl kissed his maid in last week's episode but quickly apologised as his wife Cora laid on her sick bed
Hardcore fans will have to wait until next Autumn to get their dose as filming will begin early next year.
Main characters such as Bonneville and his onscreen mother, Dame Maggie Smith, have reportedly negotiated pay rises to stay with the successful award-winning drama.
Julian Fellowes, who penned the script said: 'I am extremely grateful. I have grown very fond of my Downton family and I certainly do not want to say goodbye to them quite yet.'
The highly-anticipated third series will see the famous family tackle the twenties.
ITV’s Head of Drama Commissioning, Laura Mackie, is also pleased that the series will be returning: 'We’re delighted to be bringing Downton Abbey back for a third series, as we follow the inhabitants as they move into the roaring twenties.
'It’s rare to find a drama that the audience connects with so strongly and we’re extremely proud to have commissioned such a phenomenon.'
But for those who feel they just cannot wait until next year don't actually have to wait too long as next month a Downton Christmas special featuring Coronation Street star, Nigel Havers, will be screened.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2057668/Downton-Abbey-Earl-Grantham-secret-bedroom-tryst-new-maid.html#ixzz1cpcEMFZd
parkerman
05-11-2011, 12:10
Julian Fellowes, who penned the script said: 'I am extremely grateful. I have grown very fond of my Downton family and I certainly do not want to say goodbye to them quite yet.'
I'll bet he doesn't. Kerching!
Sunday, 25 December 2011, 9:00PM - 11:00PM
Christmas 1919. Downton Abbey is hosting a lavish Christmas party, yet despite being the season of goodwill, tensions are rife and Bates’s arrest has cast a shadow over the festivities. Will he be a condemned man or will he be found innocent in time for the annual servants ball?
Mary has to consider her future with Sir Richard Carlisle following a contretemps at the shooting party and Violet has concerns about Rosamund, whose new suitor - the dashing but raffish Lord Hepworth, is not all he seems.
Dan Stevens has dropped some hints about the upcoming Downton Abbey Christmas special.
The actor told What's On TV that the episode may feature another development in the relationship between Matthew and Mary (Michelle Dockery).
"He might be moving on a little bit," he teased. "But there's a lot of things up in the air that need to be resolved."
However, Stevens refused to say too much about what is coming up in the episode.
"Downton has a very big Christmas tree, I can tell you that much," he said. "I can't tell you much else but it's a bit Christmassy."
Meanwhile, ITV has revealed that the two-hour special will be set in 1919 and feature a Christmas party at the Abbey.
However, Bates's arrest will be a hot topic of conversation, Mary will consider her future with Sir Richard Carlisle and the Dowager Countess will be worried about Rosamund's new beau Lord Hepworth (Nigel Havers).
The Downton Abbey special will air at 9pm on ITV1 on Christmas Day.
Fans were gutted when the second series of Downton Abbey came to an end, so no doubt they're longing for Christmas Day to come quicker than usual.
The ITV drama is back for a two-hour long special on December 25 and if the latest images are anything to go by, viewers are going to be left wanting even more.
The festive episode will see various storylines pick up where they left off, but probably most important is the relationship between Lady Mary and Matthew Crawley.
What will happen next? Fans of Downton Abbey will finally get to see if things progress between Matthew Crawley and Lady Mary
Something to hide? Lady Mary gets close to her love interest after her fiancé becomes an unwanted house guest at the New Year's Eve party
In the teasing images, the pair are seen dancing with one another at the New Year's Eve party after Lady Mary's fiancé, Sir Richard Carlisle, becomes an unwanted house guest.
Viewers may finally see the couple get together, after Matthew's fiancee passed away in the last series, as in another images the brunette certainly looks like she has something to hide.
Lavinia Swire told her fiancé on her deathbed that he should get together with his real love so perhaps he is taking her advice.
The episode will also see the residents of upstairs and downstairs come together as they enjoy the servants’ ball and a night of dancing.
In the festive spirit: Lady Mary will spend time with Matthew at the servants' ball which sees the residents of upstairs and downstairs come together
There will also be another first in the form of the staff being given Christmas Day off as Earl Grantham takes charge of the festive lunch in the kitchen.
The main character will continue to testify at the trial of Bates - the valet who is on trial for the murder of his wife, but at the same time the Earl's wife looks to be making a shocking discovery as she is pictured reading a diary.
New chef in Downton: As the staff are given a day off the Earl of Grantham takes to the kitchen to cook Christmas lunch
Caught out: What discovery are the ladies making on Christmas day?
Fans of the show are aware that he shared a passionate kiss with a member of staff in the second series, and will now wonder if his wife is about to find out all about it.
The dramatic episode is sure to be a hit with viewers across the UK as they settle down to enjoy some festive TV after their Christmas dinner - and ITV is certainly hoping so.
All about giving: Some of the characters may receive unwanted gifts on the festive day
The commercial broadcaster is looking to triumph over the BBC this year as its rivals plan to screen a Christmas special of Absolutely Fabulous in the same 9-11pm slot.
But the BBC has the upper hand with soap EastEnders - traditionally the most popular programme on the day.
It's hoping that the combination of the Walford residents and the popular comedy along with a variety of Christmas films will be enough to stop viewers from straying to ITV.
Ongoing trial: Fans of the show will see the Earl of Grantham continue to testify at the case of his valet
Did he, didn't he? Bates is standing trial accused of murdering his estranged wife
But it's not just Christmas Day that they're fighting for as the days afterwards are also important.
BBC One will be showing its new version of Great Expectations in three instalments on December 27 to 29 and on Boxing Day, a double episode of Coronation Street will be pitted against BBC One’s adaptation of The Borrowers, starring Victoria Wood and Stephen Fry.
Christmas at Downton: The two-hour special is likely to feature much festive cheer and lots of stiff upper lip
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2068407/Downton-Abbey-Lady-Mary-Matthew-Crawley-close-New-Years-Eve-party-hour-Christmas-special.html#ixzz1fFn5TTgT
parkerman
01-12-2011, 07:48
Fans were gutted when the second series of Downton Abbey came to an end, so no doubt they're longing for Christmas Day to come quicker than usual.
Yes, life isn't worth living without Downton Abbey. I'd gladly give away two months of my life just to see Downton Abbey back on our screens...er..
Yes, life isn't worth living without Downton Abbey. I'd gladly give away two months of my life just to see Downton Abbey back on our screens...er..
I don't have to give away any time of my life to see Downton Abbei back on my tv screen ... Santa is bringing me the box set of Series 1 and 2 :cheer: :thumbsup: :p
Yes, life isn't worth living without Downton Abbey. I'd gladly give away two months of my life just to see Downton Abbey back on our screens...er..
The clue was in the first word of the quoted sentence ''FANS'' not cynics :D
Chloe O'brien
01-12-2011, 10:16
I don't have to give away any time of my life to see Downton Abbei back on my tv screen ... Santa is bringing me the box set of Series 1 and 2 :cheer: :thumbsup: :p
Lucky you Perdy I hope Santa has a spare one for me, to keep me entertain during these long dark nights.
Downton Abbey star Brendan Coyle has promised that the Christmas special has some "intense" scenes.
Coyle, who plays Bates, explained that it was strange shooting scenes in which Bates has to go to court.
"[It was] very atmospheric and intense, especially filming in the cells," Coyle told TV Choice magazine.
"Courts are designed to make you feel small, so when I walked up the stairs into the dock, it was pretty intimidating."
Coyle also revealed that the episodes scripts were "amazing" and explained that he is looking forward to seeing what happens to the other characters.
However, Coyle joked that he can reveal "absolutely nothing" about the instalment, quipping: "It's been nice talking to you and I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year! I've spoken to the producers and I just can't say."
Coyle's co-star Dan Stevens has previously hinted that the episode, which will air at 9pm on ITV1 on Christmas Day, will feature further developments in the relationship between Matthew and Mary.
yay! Im so glad there doing a christmas special.
Iveboth series now on dvd and there so good to put in on these dark cold sunday afternoons.
Chloe O'brien
14-12-2011, 09:43
I was in Asda on Monday and they have series 1 & 2 in a boxset for £26 so I think I may be getting that from Marley or the Senna dvd or a couple of cd's
DOWNTON ABBEY baddie Thomas Barrow finally meets his match – when he clashes with the Dowager Countess of Grantham.
The scheming footman dances with Lady Violet Crawley, played by Dame Maggie Smith, at the servants' ball in a special episode of the ITV1 drama on Christmas Day.
But actor Rob James-Collier, who plays Thomas, admits he got off on the wrong foot with the 76-year-old Dame when he stepped on her toe.
Former Corrie hunk Rob, 35, said: "I was nervous about it because I can't actually dance — unless it's breakdancing. Maggie was OK though. We had a laugh.
"I stood on her toe and got the death-ray glare but I got through it. It was extremely nerve-racking."
His clumsy efforts could be down to the fact he missed the start of rehearsals — to get his hair cut.
Rob added: "Due to the fact I was having a 'Thomas haircut' that day, I missed the first 30 minutes of rehearsals and found that I couldn't keep up.
"I have two left feet and cannot waltz or indeed dance for toffee. But we had a laugh and she was so great. I think she humoured me and my two left feet."
Rob, who first found fame as Liam Connor in Coronation Street, added: "I suggested we do the lift from Dirty Dancing but she wasn't convinced I had the upper-body strength."
The Christmas special sees Thomas back and firmly stuck in his role as footman — once more desperately seeking promotion to be valet to the Earl (Hugh Bonneville).
But he is as bad as ever and fans will be appalled to see him kidnap the Earl's beloved labrador and hide him in a shed so he can later reunite the pair and win brownie points.
The episode is not due to air until Christmas Day — but Rob is already getting abuse off his friends, family and cast members about the plot.
He said: "I've been getting loads of stick for what he does to the dog. But a shed is bigger than a kennel.
"There was straw in there. It's not like I kicked him in. But it's what you do in desperation. Thomas has lost everything on the black market, he's doing what he can to get where he wants to go. He's misunderstood!"
Rob already gets shouted at by pensioners for Thomas's misdeeds and endless scheming with ladies' maid Sarah O'Brien (Siobhan Finneran) but he admits most fans love to hate him and are annoyed when he shows his softer side.
He said: "It's pantomime-esque, playful banter. I go into a post office and get booed and families give me a hard time in cafes — but sometimes they offer to pay for coffee! So it works both ways.
"If I show a softer side of the character, people are offended by that. I get stick for going soft."
Thomas is the only gay character in the show — but has not had a love interest in the last series.
Rob insists he has no idea what is in store for series three, which starts filming in February.
He said: "Whatever come along, we'll see what happens. Becoming a valet would be all right since he's been going on about it for more than two series."
The show has been a huge success around the world and dubbed into many languages.
But Rob admits that hearing the sexy tones of the Spanish actor whose voice is used over his has left him too scared to visit Spanish-speaking countries on holiday — in case he disappoints the locals.
He said: "The man who dubs my voice in Spanish has an infinitely deeper and much more sexy voice than mine. If I ever meet any fans out there, they will be left feeling very short-changed."
The show has got huge ratings globally.
But Rob admits he felt most thrilled when he discovered a certain flamboyant dancer and TV personality enjoyed the show.
He said: "Louie Spence is a fan! He loves it."
The two-hour Downton Abbey special, set over Christmas 1919, will be on ITV1 at 9pm on Christmas Day.
DOWNTON ABBEY star Dan Stevens says wife Susie is so keen on the show he has to hide the storylines.
The actor, who plays Matthew Crawley, admits his on-off relationship with Lady Mary has gripped her as much as the public.
He said: "Keeping scripts from my wife is the biggest challenge."
The Sun
DOWNTON ABBEY star Rob James-Collier has come a long way since his days earning cash by flogging wedding suit hire on the side of vans.
The actor, who plays scheming Thomas Barrow, signed up for the ad campaign in 2008.
He has also done catalogue modelling for Argos.
Rob got his big break in Coronation Street in 2006, playing Liam Connor.
In Downtown's Christmas Day special the footman is a bad lad again.
Rob said: "Thomas has lost everything on the black market. He's just doing what he can to get where he wants to go."
tammyy2j
15-12-2011, 14:02
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=TK61oTDsc2s
Downton Abbey's Michelle Dockery has questioned whether her character Lady Mary will ever find true love.
Speaking in a behind-the-scenes documentary, the actress said that she believes she may not reunite with former lover Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens).
"They were meant to be together. But maybe they can't be, maybe it is too late," she explained.
Dockery added: "She is with this person who she is going to spend the rest of her life with but she doesn't love him."
Creator Julian Fellowes commented on the storyline: "Matthew is a man in hell and the only thing to do is punish himself. Sin must not be rewarded in his mind."
Downton Abbey: Behind the Drama airs tonight at 7.30pm on ITV1, ahead of the show's festive special which will be broadcast on Christmas Day at 9pm on ITV1.
Chloe O'brien
22-12-2011, 17:24
Matthew and Mary better get together. They can't torture us like this. Not at Christmas.
parkerman
22-12-2011, 17:54
I think you'll find they can...:D
Chloe O'brien
22-12-2011, 18:01
I think you'll find they can...:D
Don't say that Parkerman. It's bad enough having Mr Bates and Anna torn apart without them doing the same to Matthew and Mary.
Yeahhh. To Mary and Matthew getting together at last and I am sure that Bates will be released from jail in the next series. Well, he better be!!!
Coronation Street's Kym Marsh has revealed that she would love a part on Downton Abbey.
The actress praised former co-star Rob James-Collier, who plays Thomas on the ITV period drama.
She told PA: "I watched the first series but I never watched the second one as I just couldn't catch it regularly because of my new baby.
"I've bought it on DVD so I intend to watch that, I loved the first series so much that I have to see the second one.
"It's a far cry from playing Liam! I think he's done a great job and we're all very proud of him."
Marsh, who plays Michelle Connor on Coronation Street, added: "I'd love to do a period drama. I'd love to be in Downton Abbey, it would be amazing. I don't think they'd bring me in as well, though!
"I'd have to play a maid, though, I wouldn't be one of the posh ones, I'd definitely be a maid. It's always nice to do different things and dress up, it's like playing dress up as an actor."
Please, noooo :angry:
Katherine Kelly would be brilliant, but Kym Marsh absolute nightmare.
Chloe O'brien
28-12-2011, 23:21
When are corrie going to give the mad women the boot. She's got no chance in getting a role in any quality drama as she can't act for toffee. The sooner the powers that be get rid of her, Stelllaaaaaa and toxic Tracy the better.
Alex Kingston has revealed details of her new Upstairs Downstairs character.
The Doctor Who actress will play Dr Blanche Mottershead, the younger sister of Dame Eileen Atkins's alter ego Lady Holland.
Kingston told The Sun: "I can say the character is very complex, very intriguing and very straight-talking. She has some very dark secrets of her own."
Blanche was brought in after Atkins announced her departure from the period drama after one series.
Upstairs Downstairs will return to BBC One in spring of 2012.
Alex Kingston has revealed details of her new Upstairs Downstairs character.
The Doctor Who actress will play Dr Blanche Mottershead, the younger sister of Dame Eileen Atkins's alter ego Lady Holland.
Kingston told The Sun: "I can say the character is very complex, very intriguing and very straight-talking. She has some very dark secrets of her own."
Blanche was brought in after Atkins announced her departure from the period drama after one series.
Upstairs Downstairs will return to BBC One in spring of 2012.What has this got to do with Downton Abbey
© WENN / FayesVision
Joan Collins may be making a cameo appearance in the next series of Downton Abbey.
According to the Daily Express, producers of the hit ITV drama are keen to recruit the veteran actress for a role in the show's third run, which will be filming in spring 2012 for an autumn premiere.
It is alleged that Collins may play a cousin of Dame Maggie Smith's character Violet Crawley.
"A number of cameos are being planned for the next series and Joan's name is top of the list," a source said. "It's hoped she can be persuaded to appear in at least one episode."
The Downton Abbey Christmas special, which was broadcast on Christmas Day, featured a guest appearance from Nigel Havers, who played fortune hunter Lord Hepworth.
Coronation Street star Kym Marsh has also recently spoken of her desire to join the cast of Downton Abbey alongside former colleague Rob-James Collier, who plays valet Thomas.
How could anyone compare Joan Collins with Dame Maggie Smith.
Chloe O'brien
01-01-2012, 22:15
Well I watched it today as I missed it over Christmas and what can I say it was fab, Dame Maggie was on top form with her costic remarks and we're all cheering when Matthew thumped Carlile. It will be and long year awaiting it's return but at least we have the boxset to keep us entertained.
Downton Abbey was the most watched TV programme at Christmas, beating EastEnders into second place, according to official numbers.
Initial overnight figures suggested the BBC’s long-running soap had pipped the period drama for the coveted position.
But it achieved an audience of 11.59million compared with EastEnders’ 11.33million when including viewers who recorded the ITV 1 show to watch later and those who preferred to see the fictional Grantham estate in High Definition.
The new figures from ratings firm Barb does not take into account viewers who tuned into repeats or who watched the programmes on catch-up services such as the BBC iPlayer or ITV player.
Doctor Who came third, with 10.77million viewers, while Coronation Street finished with 10.56million.
In fifth place was the return of Absolutely Fabulous, starring Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley, with 9.07million.
Poor viewing: Despite millions tuning in to see Pat Butcher's final appearance, the BBC lost out to ITV
Taking into account viewers who do not watch shows live has become increasingly important for TV producers.
With more people able to watch recorded versions of their favourite show, it has allowed some shows to increase viewing figures substantially.
On Christmas Day 9.9million watched EastEnders, with just 8.1million choosing Downton Abbey – both shows were on at the same time.
It means more than 3million watched a recording of the show, perhaps in a bid to be able to skip the adverts
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2081844/Downton-Abbey-Christmas-ratings-beat-EastEnders.html#ixzz1iTTTdYU8
parkerman
04-01-2012, 08:49
with just 8.1million choosing Downton Abbey – both shows were on at the same time.
It means more than 3million watched a recording of the show, perhaps in a bid to be able to skip the adverts
I was one of those!
I was one of those!
So was I :D
I was one of those!
So was I :D
I had to watch it again because I didnt get peace at Christmas with the great-nieces and nephew
Chloe O'brien
04-01-2012, 21:33
I was at my sisters on Christmas day so I never got the chance to see it. My sister went into her room to watch it and I kept sneaking in to ask her if Matthew and Mary were together then say, NO don't tell me. Great news for Downton.
Brendan Coyle has been nominated for his first Irish Film And Television Award for his role in Downton Abbey. :cheer:
The actor, who has become an unlikely hearthrob for his role as Mr Bates in the ITV period drama, is up for best supporting actor in a television role.
He's up against actors including Aidan Gillen for Game Of Thrones and Robert Sheehan for Misfits.
Robert's Misfits co-star Ruth Negga has been nominated for the role of Shirley Bassey in Shirley.
In the film categories, period piece Albert Nobbs, rural drama Stella Days and black comedy The Guard will go head to head at the ceremony next month.
The scriptwriters of each film are also nominated, including renowned author John Banville and Hollywood actress Glenn Close who penned Albert Nobbs.
Actors nominated for a lead role are Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy star Ciaran Hinds, The Guard's Brendan Gleeson, Michael Fassbender for his performance in Steve McQueen's drama Shame, and Martin Sheen for his role as an Irish priest in Stella Days.
Sheen's co-star Marcella Plunkett has also been nominated with Antonia Campbell Hughes (The Other Side Of Sleep), Aoife Duffin (Behold The Lamb) and Saoirse Ronan (Hanna) in the lead actress category.
Presented by actor Simon Delaney, the 9th IFTAs will be broadcast in Ireland on Saturday February 11 from the Convention Centre Dublin (CCD).
PA
Thank you Mr Julian Fellowes, thank you to all of the cast and crew of Downton Abbey and thank you Santa for bringing me the boxset of Series 1 and 2. Having watched the DVDs over 2 days without interruption has given me immense pleasure and I know I shall be viewing them again and again, just awesome, something I don't say too often about tv shows or films. :bow:
Chloe O'brien
13-01-2012, 10:43
Well done to Brendan on his nomination. Don't know if we will get it as he's up against Aidan Gillen and he's a tough act to beat.
Fay Ripley has revealed she would love a role in Downton Abbey - provided she didn't have to play a maid.
The Cold Feet actress is a dab hand in the kitchen and has an award-winning cookery book to her name, but insisted she'd stay well out of the servants' quarters if she landed a part in the hit period drama.
She confessed: "I want to be in Downton Abbey! But I don't want to be a maid. I want to be upstairs doing something lovely and glamorous.
"I think the next series is set in the Twenties and I do not look good in a Flapper dress, so I might have to wait for the series after that."
Fay, who is back with a second series of the cookery show Perfect..., is married to fellow actor Daniel Lapaine - best known for playing the groom in Muriel's Wedding.
"I still love the film; I've always loved it. It's brilliant and it definitely stands the test of time," Fay said.
"(Daniel) looks so different now. When I watch it I just scream with laughter."
Fay Ripley narrates Perfect... which is exclusive to Good Food, Monday to Wednesday at 7pm from tonight (January 16).
Downton Abbey stars Elizabeth McGovern and Michelle Dockery are apparently releasing an album together.
The actresses - whose costume drama clinched the Golden Globe for best miniseries or movie at the weekend - have been hard at work making the record, reports the Daily Express.
Speaking at a screening of the film My Week With Marilyn, Elizabeth - who has been fronting a band called Sadie And The Hotheads for four years - revealed: "It's going to come out later in the year."
Michelle is no stranger to music either. The actress is also a jazz singer and she has performed at events including the 50th anniversary of Ronnie Scott's jazz club in London.
The 30-year-old said it's been "so much fun" working on the album with her Downton co-star Elizabeth, 50.
Elizabeth and Michelle played the Countess of Grantham and her eldest daughter, Lady Mary Crawley, in the award-winning TV series.
THE Downton Abbey gang could be back again in Hollywood quite soon — making Downton: The Movie.
Show creator Julian Fellowes was the toast of Tinseltown on Sunday night after the ITV1 costume drama landed a major TV prize at the Golden Globe awards.
He was virtually mobbed at the event's after-party at the Beverly Hilton, with actors and movie bosses wanting to know whether there was a film on the cards.
A source said: "Julian was chatting with various film directors and movie executives about the show and the possibility it would make a fantastic feature film.
"Reese Witherspoon and Meryl Streep were also seen chatting and congratulating him.
"He was very much flying the flag for British TV.
"They were all chatting about how much of a success the film version would be.
"Julian was explaining he would have to give the idea a lot of thought and that lots of people have already asked him about film rights."
He wrote the 2001 film, which starred Downton's Maggie Smith, and earned himself an Oscar for best screenplay.
Downton has become a hit in the US after it started airing on the PBS channel as part of the Masterpiece slot.
The channel also shows other British programmes such as Sherlock, the second series of which ended on BBC1 on Sunday.
Downton star Elizabeth McGovern, who plays the Countess of Grantham, explained the show's appeal to Americans.
She said: "I think they love the drama and the intrigue, and they also love the solidity of the life — that you're free of mobile phones and Twitter."
ITV is in the process of making a third series of Downton Abbey.
It will be set in 1920 and 1921, and cover 18 months in the lives of the Crawley family and the servants who work for them.
DOWNTON ABBEY will see an influx of Americans — and TWO weddings — for its third series.
4 comments Related StoriesDownton Abbey set for Hollywood
HIT period drama gang could be back again in La La Land quite soon - for the film
Miranda new role is a labour of loveDownton Abbey is a real Carry OnDermot O’Leary’s Dame for a laughCorrie’s Kevin is a very Abbey manUS-born actress Elizabeth McGovern, who plays Lady Grantham, revealed there will be reunions with her relatives from the States — and told how much she loves the show.
Elizabeth said: "I feel a bit guilty because I get paid to do something that is so much fun. We have a lot of laughs. I love the team behind Downton so it really is a joy."
But while the lavish outfits are a joy there is one drawback.
"They put you in a corset and, baby, they squeeze that tight! At the end of the day my intensities are in my throat and in my legs! It's very hard work.
"I enjoy wearing them but it's nice to leave them at work."
tammyy2j
30-01-2012, 21:24
Downton Abbey has cast Oscar-winning actress Shirley MacLaine in the show's new series.
MacLaine has been unveiled as Lady Grantham's mother, Martha Levinson, ahead of filming on the hit period drama's third run, which starts in February.
Downton Abbey has cast Oscar-winning actress Shirley MacLaine in the show's new series.
MacLaine has been unveiled as Lady Grantham's mother, Martha Levinson, ahead of filming on the hit period drama's third run, which starts in February.
The six-time Academy Award nominee is being billed as a "wonderful combatant" for Dame Maggie Smith's Dowager Countess in the Julian Fellowes-penned series.
Laura Mackie, director of drama at ITV said: "It is so exciting to have an actress of Shirley MacLaine's stature joining our brilliant Downton Abbey cast for series three and a tribute to the show's success on both sides of the Atlantic."
MacLaine's distinguished career includes roles in Terms of Endearment, Bernie, In Her Shoes and The Apartment. She also released the best-selling books Sage-ing While Age-ing and I'm Over All That - And Other Confessions.
Series three of Downton Abbey is expected to air in the autumn in the UK. The second run is currently showing on Masterpiece on PBS in the US.
Producer Carnival Films' managing director, Gareth Neame commented on the casting: "My late grandfather directed Shirley MacLaine in Gambit in 1966 so it is a delight for me that she will be joining us on Downton Abbey.
"Julian has written another brilliant character in Martha Levinson, who will be a wonderful combatant for Maggie Smith's Dowager Countess and we are excited at the prospect of Shirley MacLaine playing her."
I hope the show dont go too Hollywood by getting loads of big names I like the cast as it is
Production on the third series of Downton Abbey begins this week, with the cast returning to their roles in the critically acclaimed drama.
Stars Laura Carmichael, Sophie McShera, Lesley Nicol and Allen Leech spoke to Digital Spy's Anna Williamson on the red carpet of the Elle Style Awards last night, confirming that they would be back filming in Highclere Castle.
"We had a read through of the first five scripts, and they are really, really good," Leech said. "I think it's going to be very exciting."
They were joined by fellow castmembers including Hugh Bonneville and Thomas Howes at the Elle Style Awards, where they collected the award for 'Best TV Show'.
It was recently confirmed that Oscar-winning actress Shirley MacLaine has joined the cast as Lady Grantham's mother, Martha Levinson.
Matt Milne has signed up for a role in the third series of Downton Abbey.
The actor, who recently played Andrew in the movie War Horse, is joining the cast as a footman called Alfred.
Alfred is also the nephew of O'Brien (Siobhan Finneran), Digital Spy has learned.
As well as appearing in War Horse, Milne will star as Agathon in the upcoming movie Wrath of the Titans.
Oscar-nominated actress Shirley MacLaine has already signed up for a role in the new series of Downton Abbey and will play the mother of Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern).
Downton Abbey is expected to return with a new series on ITV later this year.
Downton Abbey will be switching over to the 'Outstanding Drama Series' category at this year's Emmy Awards, it has been reported.
The first season of Downton Abbey in America was cut to four episodes out of the original seven that aired on ITV, but the most recent season included all seven episodes - exceeding the six that constitute a miniseries at the Emmys.
The show, which airs on PBS in the US, earned an 'Outstanding Miniseries' award at the Emmys last year.
TV Academy Awards chief John Leverence told Gold Derby: "After starting out as a miniseries, Downton Abbey caught fire and so now it moves over to the drama series category as it plans for future TV seasons. It follows the trajectory of previous shows like The Starter Wife that started out as a miniseries and then became a regular series."
Downton Abbey has enjoyed enormous success in the US, with this past season finale becoming one of the highest-rated television events on PBS.
The third season of the programme is currently filming, with the return of stars like Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville and Dan Stevens.
Shirley MacLaine has joined the cast as Lady Grantham's mother.
Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville has denied rumours that a film adaptation is being planned.
The actor, who plays Earl Robert Crawley in the ITV drama, said that fans had jumped to the wrong conclusion after creator Julian Fellowes spoke to Hollywood producers at last month's Golden Globes.
"Everyone thinks we're making a film because our writer spoke to some producers at the Golden Globes," he told the Daily Star. "But that is what happens at film awards - it doesn't mean we're doing a film."
He added: "I understand why people think we should though - the cast is incredible."
Downton Abbey won 'Best Miniseries or Television Film' at the Golden Globes, while Bonneville himself was nominated for 'Best Performance in a Miniseries or Television Film'.
It was announced this weekend that Downton Abbey will compete for the 'Outstanding Drama Series' award at this year's Emmys, having picked up the 'Outstanding Miniseries' gong at the 2011 ceremony.
Downton Abbey has cast two new actors for its third series, Digital Spy has learned.
Cara Theobald will play a new kitchen maid called Ivy in the Carnival Films period drama, while it has also been confirmed that Lucille Sharp has joined as lady's maid Miss Reid.
Last week, it was revealed that Matt Milne, the star of War Horse, had signed up to play a footman named Alfred.
In January, Oscar-nominated actress Shirley MacLaine was brought in to portray Martha Levinson, the mother of Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern). Sharp's Miss Reid is to serve as Martha Levinson's maid in the Julian Fellowes-penned piece.
Downton Abbey is expected to return with a new series on ITV later this year.
Lucy Sharp
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRNtQ2uTJkQrL9SXbvdOAPsgMboHZ70Z p0-0umNhuKoM2IRXfQaiA
Dame Maggie Smith and Dan Stevens have reportedly caused "panic" for Downton Abbey producers by not signing up for further series of the period drama. :eek: :(
Siobhan Finneran (O'Brien) and Jessica Brown Findlay (Lady Sybil) are also yet to sign contracts for the hit ITV1 drama beyond the third series, according to TV Line.
Maggie Smith, 77, who plays the Dowager Countess of Downton, is "considering her future" on the show, reports The Mirror.
Producer Carnival has denied that there are any problems with contracts, commenting: "We are currently filming series three of Downton Abbey in which all the cast have returned.
"ITV have not yet commissioned a fourth and fifth series which, if they happen, would be a long way off."
However, fellow cast members Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary), Elizabeth McGovern (Cora), Hugh Bonneville (Robert), Joanne Froggatt (Anna) and Brendan Coyle (Bates) have all reportedly signed up for a fourth and fifth series already.
Hollywood's Shirley MacLaine is among the stars who will join the Julian Fellowes show for its third series. Matt Milne, Cara Theobald and Lucille Sharp have also joined the expanded cast list.
Series three of Downton Abbey will air on ITV1 at the end of 2012.
The are both brilliant characters, hope they will sign up again. Need Dame Maggie as Dowager Countess :thumbsup:
Their will-they-won't-they storyline kept viewers gripped throughout two series of Downton Abbey.
And in the upcoming third series, Lady Mary and Matthew Crawley will finally tie the knot.
Spotted filming on location in Oxfordshire this week, actress Michelle Dockery wearing her character's wedding dress was kept covered up from onlookers.
Crew on the hit ITV period drama made sure locals in the village of Bampton and paparazzi didn't get a look at Lady Mary's bridal gown.
In scenes reminiscent of celebrities protecting their wedding magazine deals, crewmembers surrounded a horse and carriage with umbrellas as Lady Mary made her way to the church.
However, her groom Matthew - played by Dan Stevens - was spotted outside St Mary's Church, wearing a modern coat over his period costume in between takes, as well as Elizabeth McGovern, who plays mother-of-the-bride Cora, Countess of Grantham.
Downton fans were thrilled when Lady Mary and Matthew finally got together in the Christmas special.
Despite their obvious attraction, Matthew had been engaged to Lavinia Swire, who later died of Spanish influenza.
However, in the meanwhile, Lady Mary had become betrothed to newspaper magnate Sir Richard Carlisle.
But over the Christmas and New Year holidays at Downton, Lady Mary's relationship with Sir Richard became increasing fractious, culminating with a fight between the two men.
In the climax of the Christmas special, Matthew finally got down on one knee and proposed to Lady Mary in the snow after she split from Sir Richard.
Filming on the third series has taken place in Oxfordshire and Highclere Castle (aka Downton Abbey) in Hampshire - over the few weeks.
Series 3 will be screened on ITV in September.
Chloe O'brien
11-03-2012, 18:23
Only six months until then it will soon fly in.
Rob James Collier has said that working on Downton Abbey is the best job that he has ever had.
The former Coronation Street star, who plays Thomas on the ITV1 period drama, described being a part of the multi award-winning show as "amazing".
James-Collier told reporters at a press screening of his new drama Love Life: "I absolutely love doing Downton now - it's the best job I've ever done.
"The cast are amazing and they're beautiful people to work with and the directors we work with are the best people they've got and we're making television that - the first series in particular - matches anywhere in the world.
"So to be part of that is amazing but to think four, five, six years down the line... I love it now and I take it a season at a time. I love it and if they wanted me back obviously I'd say yes, I'm thrilled - but any further than season 12, I can't look that far ahead!"
James-Collier also revealed that his character was only meant to be on the show for one series.
"When they started, my character wasn't even supposed to be in series two and three," he explained. "He was going to get sacked I think, because that's what I was told at the audition - 'It's a great part, he's a really nasty piece and he gets his comeuppance, but the only bad thing is that he gets sacked at the end'.
"But then after filming the first two episodes, the producers rang up my agent and said, 'Would he consider being optioned for series two and three?' And that just came out of the blue - it's a no-brainer.
"So here I am - I could have been killed off a million times. I haven't. But I could get killed off at the end of series three, you never know. So that's why I don't think too far ahead."
Gillian Anderson has revealed that she turned down Downton Abbey.
The X-Files star was offered the role of Lady Cora Crawley - eventually played by Elizabeth McGovern - in the ITV period drama, according to TV Guide.
Anderson has appeared in a number of other period dramas, including the BBC's Bleak House and last year's adaptation of Great Expectations, which will air in the US on PBS on April 1.
A third series of Downton Abbey is currently filming and is expected to air in late 2012 on ITV and in January 2013 on PBS.
It was recently reported that stars Maggie Smith (the Dowager Countess), Dan Stevens (Matthew Crawley), Siobhan Finneran (O'Brien) and Jessica Brown Findlay (Lady Sybil) may not appear beyond the third run.
Hugh Bonneville (Earl Robert Crawley) has also denied rumours that a film version of Downton is in the works.
The show's creator Julian Fellowes has since written a four-part mini-series charting the voyage of the Titanic and will next adapt the 1957 memoirs of burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee into a film.
Ed Speleers has been cast in the new series of Downton Abbey.
The Eragon actor will play a footman named Jimmy when the ITV drama returns, Digital Spy has learned.
The 23-year-old is currently starring in horror comedy Love Bite and previously featured in Echo Beach.
Speleers's Downton Abbey casting follows the announcement last month that Cara Theobald and Lucille Sharp will play maids in series three.
War Horse star Matt Milne has also signed on to portray a new footman, while Shirley MacLaine is due to appear as Martha Levinson, the mother of Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern).
A leading Downton Abbey character will die in the next series, it has been confirmed.
Executive producer Rebecca Eaton let slip that the departing star is "pretty key in the cast".
She also revealed that one couple will start a family, telling The Insider: "Somebody will be born, and somebody will die."
"Somebody pretty key in the cast [is] unfortunately not going to make it," she teased.
Meanwhile, Eaton admitted that Dowager Countess actress Dame Maggie Smith is a "handful" on the set of the ITV period drama.
"Maggie Smith is a handful, it's true. She's very difficult. She knows her worth, and she's tricky on the set, but she delivers when the time comes," she explained.
Speaking about the arrival of Shirley MacLaine as Lady Grantham's mother Martha Levinson, Eaton added: "There are some wonderful scenes between Maggie and Shirley MacLaine - Shirley MacLaine being ditsy as ever.
"And Maggie barely restraining her sneer in having to deal with this American."
So far, the show's creator Julian Fellowes has killed off Matthew Crawley's fiancée Lavinia Swire (Zoe Boyle) through a flu epidemic in the last series finale.
Downton Abbey is expected to air its third run in September on ITV1.
Chloe O'brien
05-04-2012, 22:53
I don't like the detrimental way he says Dame Maggie is a handful. She is a National Treasure she's allowed to be a handful. Anyway I'm not liking a character being killed of, as it could be "Granny", "Mary", "Matthew", "Bates" or "Carson" and I don't want it to be any of then. Actually I don't want it to be anyone apart from Thomas he's a pain.
Nigel Havers has revealed that he was "hacked off" about not being cast in the first two series of ITV1's Downton Abbey.
The actor, who is a longtime friend of the period drama's creator Julian Fellowes, spoke of his relief at being asked to play Lord Hepworth in last year's Christmas special.
"I've known Julian Fellowes all of my life so I was really hacked off that he didn't ask me to be in it in the first place, but now I've finally been asked to be in it, it's really nice," he told Lorraine.
Havers is currently starring in ITV1 soap Coronation Street as male escort Lewis Archer.
"Being in Coronation Street has been one of the highlights of my career," he said.
"It was a big honour when I was asked to go on. I said, 'God, I'd love to go on, I'll do it straight away'."
He added: "I was very nervous and I was amazed by the street because the houses are two-thirds of the actual height. I love doing it."
Havers recently said that he was unsure about the future of his character Lewis Archer in the soap.
Meanwhile, Downton Abbey executive producer Rebecca Eaton has revealed that a major character will die in the show's third series.
Dame Maggie Smith has reportedly told Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes that the third series of the popular show will be her last. :(
A source informed the Daily Mail that the 77-year-old actress has asked to be written out of the show in order to "pursue other roles" on the big screen and stage.
"She is filming until August and then wants to leave, going out on a high. She thinks that three series is enough and she wants to get back to the stage and big screen," the source said.
The actress plays the Dowager Countess on the show, a character that is well liked for her witty one-liners.
Fellowes is reportedly still completing the plotline of the upcoming series, though executive producer Rebecca Eaton has revealed that a character who is "pretty key in the cast" will die.
Other cast members including Dan Stevens, who plays Matthew Crawley on the programme, were said to be stalling on contracts last month.
The source added: "She is keen to pursue other roles so Julian is preparing to write her out. He [Fellowes] always has several endings so it won't be too difficult for him, but losing Maggie will be a great loss."
Downton Abbey returns this summer on ITV in the UK and PBS in the US.
parkerman
15-04-2012, 18:03
Dame Maggie Smith has reportedly told Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes that the third series of the popular show will be her last.
Rebecca Eaton has revealed that a character who is "pretty key in the cast" will die.
Hmmmm......
Producers of the hit drama Downton Abbey have denied reports that Dame Maggie Smith is to leave the show.
It was earlier reported that the veteran actress has asked showrunner Julian Fellowes to write her fan favourite character out of the third series to free up time for her movie and stage pursuits.
The LA Times now reports that a representative from Carnival Films, which produces the Julian Fellowes-created programme, is now denying the actress's departure.
The spokesperson says: "Series three is currently filming with Maggie along with the other cast. We do not comment on future storylines. However, there is no truth in the story that Maggie is leaving the show."
It was earlier revealed by producer Kate Beaton that the third series of Downton Abbey will have a major character death, which some speculated to be Smith's character.
The third series will see Shirley MacLaine joining the cast. The actress has signed on to play the mother of Lady Grantham.
Downton Abbey will return to screens later this year on ITV1 in the UK and on PBS in the US.
Downton Abbey star Elizabeth McGovern has admitted to feeling underwhelmed by the show's second series.
The actress, who plays Lady Cora Grantham, said that the ITV period drama wasn't fully equipped to tackle the gravity of WWI.
"There is a slightly different tone to the second season," she explained to LA Times. "It's kind of a taste thing. And the show in the first season was more to my taste than the show in the second season.
"[We had to] deal with this huge elephant. In some ways, Downton Abbey wasn't set up for that."
It has been announced that Shirley MacLaine will portray Lady Grantham's mother in the upcoming third series.
Ed Speleers, War Horse's Matt Milne, Cara Theobald and Lucille Sharp have also joined the Downton Abbey cast.
IT’S an Abbey day in Downton as wedding scenes are filmed.
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Sir Anthony, played by Robert Bathurst, is seen strolling with a parish priest.
Last series Lady Mary accepted a proposal from Matthew Crawley, but clues hint that it may be Lady Edith Crawley and Sir Anthony Strallen that will tie the knot.
http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01498/downton2_1498144a.jpg
All dressed up ... Elizabeth McGovern who plays The Right Honourable Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham
Lady Edith, played by Laura Carmichael who is not pictured here, is more used to having romantic attention given to her siblings, but it seems that is finally her time to wed.
The cast have been filming in Bampton, Oxfordshire.
http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01498/Carter-532_1498142a.jpg
Suits you ... Charles Carson who plays Jim Carter
Other members of the cast to take part included Dame Maggie Smith, as the Dowager Countess and housemaid Anna, played by Joanne Froggatt.
http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01498/downton-532_1498138a.jpg
Hat's glamorous ... housemaid Anna played by Joanne Froggatt
Rex
The show returns to screens in September.
Downton Abbey star Brendan Coyle has admitted that he is not opposed to a film version.
Rumours of a movie based on the hit period drama, in which Coyle plays valet Mr. Bates, have recently circulated.
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© ITV
"If it's a great, great script, [I'd do it]," said Coyle during a recent press call for his new Sky1 drama Starlings. "You'd have to regard it on its own merit at the time.
"It's a good idea. [Julian Fellowes] is a terrific writer, so it would have to be something, I imagine, completely removed from the series."
Coyle admitted that he has no clue what has led Downton to become a "cultural phenomenon".
"I don't know what tipped it over," he said. "Nobody does. There's always theories that in times of austerity we look to nostalgia for comfort. There's all those social theories.
"There's [also] something about the open-ended, rolling nature of the story lines. You don't know what is going to happen, it's not finite in the same way a classic novel is, so... you get engaged in it in a different way."
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© ITV
Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville (Robert Crawley) has dismissed speculation that a film version is currently in the works.
"Julian Fellowes was at the Golden Globes and was... in conversation with people who work in films," he explained. "But to deduce from that that there is going to be a movie is a step too far. We'll have to do series three first and see what happens."
Coyle will next be seen in Sky1's Starlings which begins on Sunday (May 13) at 8pm.
Downton Abbey airs on ITV1 in the UK and on PBS in the US.
Chloe O'brien
11-05-2012, 23:49
We haven't got that long to wait for the new series. only four months.
We haven't got that long to wait for the new series. only four months.
four months can seem a loooooong time :(
Chloe O'brien
12-05-2012, 00:10
four months can seem a loooooong time :(
It won't Perdy. If we get a good Summer were we can spend loads of time out in the fresh air, the time will pass quickly and before we know it. Autumn will be upon us, SCD, X factor and Downton Abbey. It has been almost six months since it was last one. We can do it Perdy.
It won't Perdy. If we get a good Summer were we can spend loads of time out in the fresh air, the time will pass quickly and before we know it. Autumn will be upon us, SCD, X factor and Downton Abbey. It has been almost six months since it was last one. We can do it Perdy.
You are right, we can do it :thumbsup:
Shirley MacLaine has spoken about her new role on Downton Abbey.
MacLaine will appear in the hit period drama's third series as the mother of Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern).
Speaking to E! Online, the Oscar-winning actress described the experience as "fabulous" and revealed that her character will clash with the Dowager Countess (Dame Maggie Smith).
"I love Maggie, I've known her for 40 years [and] we did many scenes together," she said. "[We clash] on an intellectual level."
MacLaine also joked that she had struggled with Downton's elaborate period costumes.
"I know why there was the class system - you needed one or two people to get you dressed every day," she quipped.
Penelope Wilton (Isobel Crawley) recently described her new co-star as "wonderful".
"She's so marvellous," said Wilton. "She's in the first two episodes, and we loved her."
Downton Abbey will return to ITV in the UK in late 2012. In the US, the series airs on PBS.
Downton Abbey star Joanne Froggatt has said that she was honoured to share scenes with Shirley MacLaine and Maggie Smith in the third series.
The actress - who plays housemaid Anna Bates - discussed working with the two iconic stars in a new interview with People.
"This scene I was in, there's an amazing little conversation between the two of them, a sort of snipey conversation," Froggatt hinted.
She continued: "It was like watching these two legends at work. It was one of the most special days I think I've ever had on set. It was magical."
Froggatt also offered a preview of her character Anna's struggle to prove husband John Bates (Brendan Coyle) is innocent of murder charges.
"You do see her grow up that little bit more, and she's a married lady now, she's Mr Bates. She moves into a more senior position in the house and she kind of becomes a woman," the star revealed.
"Obviously her and Mr Bates are having their turmoils again, so she's fighting to free her man as well."
Earlier this week, the first footage of MacLaine as Martha Levinson in Downton Abbey was unveiled.
Downton Abbey will return to ITV in the UK in late 2012. In the US, the series airs on PBS.
MyAnna Buring has joined the cast of Downton Abbey.
The Twilight: Breaking Dawn star will reportedly appear in special Christmas episodes later this year.
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© BBC
Buring will play a feisty servant named Edna in the period drama, reports The Sunday Times.
"You couldn't get two projects more different. I was thrilled when the Downton offer came," she said.
Bad Girls actress Simone Lahbib has also joined the cast as another servant.
The upcoming third series of the popular drama will begin in September, and will see the first appearance from Hollywood actress Shirley MacLaine.
Julian Fellowes has revealed details of the main plots of the third series.
MyAnna Buring recently spoke to Digital Spy about her role in BBC drama Blackout.
Benedict Cumberbatch has claimed that the second series of Downton Abbey was "f**king atrocious".
The actor told the Reader's Digest September issue that he was not a fan of last year's episodes.
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© BBC / Mammoth Screen
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© ITV
"We're remembering that there was a world before the First World War," Cumberbatch said of his role in BBC Two's Parade's End.
"We're living in a culture now that's revering, or having a nostalgia trip with, the beginning of the 1900s.
"Although Downton traded a lot on the sentiment in the last series... but we won't talk about that series because it was, in my opinion, f**king atrocious."
He added: "There was that fear, yes. I thought, 'Are we pandering to a taste?' But this is so much more sophisticated, so much more unusual.
"You rarely see a piece about this class of people that's this accurate, funny and pointed. We're not making some clichéd comment, 'Oh, isn't it awful the way there's this upstairs-downstairs divide'.
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© BBC / Mammoth Screen
"This is about class and love, an elegy to a dying era. It's the final mad waltz of Edwardian society into this war-game idiocy."
Cumberbatch said of the era: "Everyone was held in their place, but what was honourable about it was that there was a duty of care from the top down.
"That shouldn't be tied in with any sort of fat-faced, flatulent Cameron effort at what Toryism - horribly - is now."
Reader's Digest is out next Tuesday, August 21.
Downton Abbey star Rob James-Collier has joked that he had to check his character Thomas Barrow was still gay.
The footman had an affair with the Duke of Crowborough (Charlie Cox) and tried it on with Turkish envoy Kemal Pamuk (Theo James) in the period drama's first series, but his homosexuality was not mentioned in the show's second run.
The 35-year-old quipped that he asked creator Julian Fellowes about the issue, and promised that Thomas's sexuality will be explored in the future, reports The Sun.
"The gay thing comes back in this series," James-Collier said. "He stopped being gay in series two!
"I had to ring upstairs and ask Julian, 'Am I still gay?' I said, 'Right, OK'.
"Seriously, in series two the drama focused on the Second World War and the huge impact it had on people back home in Britain in dealing with the dead and wounded. The gay thing was largely ignored.
"But Thomas has a beautiful storyline which evolves right through the new series and there is a massive pay-off."
The former Coronation Street actor went on to say that he had a number of "emotional" scenes to film in the new series, which he found "very challenging".
"I hope the audience will identify with why Thomas is the way he is - he has this secret which he can't tell anyone about because [homosexuality was] illegal," he added.
"He has this burden which he wants to share and we see that explained in a lovely storyline, thanks to Lord Fellowes."
Downton Abbey's third series will air in the autumn on ITV1 in the UK. It will air in the US on PBS on January 6, 2013.
Downton Abbey star Rob James-Collier has joked that he had to check his character Thomas Barrow was still gay.
The footman had an affair with the Duke of Crowborough (Charlie Cox) and tried it on with Turkish envoy Kemal Pamuk (Theo James) in the period drama's first series, but his homosexuality was not mentioned in the show's second run.
The 35-year-old quipped that he asked creator Julian Fellowes about the issue, and promised that Thomas's sexuality will be explored in the future, reports The Sun.
"The gay thing comes back in this series," James-Collier said. "He stopped being gay in series two!
"I had to ring upstairs and ask Julian, 'Am I still gay?' I said, 'Right, OK'.
"Seriously, in series two the drama focused on the Second World War and the huge impact it had on people back home in Britain in dealing with the dead and wounded. The gay thing was largely ignored.
"But Thomas has a beautiful storyline which evolves right through the new series and there is a massive pay-off."
The former Coronation Street actor went on to say that he had a number of "emotional" scenes to film in the new series, which he found "very challenging".
"I hope the audience will identify with why Thomas is the way he is - he has this secret which he can't tell anyone about because [homosexuality was] illegal," he added.
"He has this burden which he wants to share and we see that explained in a lovely storyline, thanks to Lord Fellowes."
Downton Abbey's third series will air in the autumn on ITV1 in the UK. It will air in the US on PBS on January 6, 2013.
tammyy2j
21-08-2012, 10:52
Two new teaser trailers for season 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvDtszcZAV0&feature=player_embedded
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=twmT-BncW7k
Downton Abbey cast members have poked fun at Benedict Cumberbatch on Twitter for describing their show as "f**king atrocious".
Cumberbatch made the comments during an interview with Reader's Digest, in which he was promoting rival BBC period drama Parade's End.
"We're living in a culture now that's revering, or having a nostalgia trip with, the beginning of the 1900s," he was reported as saying.
"Although Downton traded a lot on the sentiment in the last series... but we won't talk about that series because it was, in my opinion, f**king atrocious."
Hugh Bonneville, Dan Stevens and Brendan Coyle have now referenced the Sherlock actor's put-down of their ITV programme by simultaneously changing their profile pictures to the cover of the Reader's Digest issue containing his quotes.
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© Twitter
The image features a large shot of Cumberbatch's face and the heading: "Move over, Downton!"
First-look images and trailers of Downton Abbey's third series have been released in the run-up to its UK launch this autumn. The show will air in the US from January 6.
Downton Abbey cast members have poked fun at Benedict Cumberbatch on Twitter for describing their show as "f**king atrocious".
Cumberbatch made the comments during an interview with Reader's Digest, in which he was promoting rival BBC period drama Parade's End.
"We're living in a culture now that's revering, or having a nostalgia trip with, the beginning of the 1900s," he was reported as saying.
"Although Downton traded a lot on the sentiment in the last series... but we won't talk about that series because it was, in my opinion, f**king atrocious."
Hugh Bonneville, Dan Stevens and Brendan Coyle have now referenced the Sherlock actor's put-down of their ITV programme by simultaneously changing their profile pictures to the cover of the Reader's Digest issue containing his quotes.
http://i1.cdnds.net/12/34/618x126/screen-shot-2012-08-23-at-132320.jpg
© Twitter
The image features a large shot of Cumberbatch's face and the heading: "Move over, Downton!"
First-look images and trailers of Downton Abbey's third series have been released in the run-up to its UK launch this autumn. The show will air in the US from January 6.
Sounds like the battle of the costume dramas has begun.
Downton Abbey male stars have joked that their period underpants were difficult to wear.
They were reportedly banned from wearing modern underwear during a filmed cricket match in case they showed through on screen.
Stars including Dan Stevens and Hugh Bonneville struggled to remain focused during filming while wearing the baggy garments, leading to several rude jokes.
David Robb - who plays Dr Clarkson on the period drama - told The Sun: "The bosses reckoned viewers might be able to see our Calvin Kleins, so we had to wear these big pants.
"But they don't really contain a chap - you just flop and dangle around all over the place - and the boys' jokes were flying, as you can imagine.
"I don't think the viewers will really be able to see anything but I'm not sure."
The cricket match between the house and the village, will feature as part of the drama's third season finale.
Robb added: "The cricket match was hilarious. We didn't really know what we were doing, but had great fun."
Downton Abbey's third series will air in the autumn on ITV1 in the UK. It will air in the US on PBS on January 6, 2013.
tammyy2j
30-08-2012, 12:29
The relative newlyweds Lady Sybil and Bransonare back at Downton in Season 3, which doesn’t sit well with the onetime chauffeur’s former colleagues. “When they come back from Ireland, where does he belong?” muses series creator Julian Fellowes. “It’s difficult for him because here are all these people he worked with and now they’re bending over and serving him. It’s a difficult journey he has to make.”
tammyy2j
30-08-2012, 12:29
The relative newlyweds Lady Sybil and Bransonare back at Downton in Season 3, which doesn’t sit well with the onetime chauffeur’s former colleagues. “When they come back from Ireland, where does he belong?” muses series creator Julian Fellowes. “It’s difficult for him because here are all these people he worked with and now they’re bending over and serving him. It’s a difficult journey he has to make.”
biglinhead
05-09-2012, 07:26
i'm looking forward to the next season !cheers!
I'm also looking forward to the next season,it is about the best costume drama on TV.
Does anyone know exactly when it starts.
Downton Abbey
Episode: 1*of*8
Sunday, 16 September 2012,*9:00PM*
Cora’s mother sweeps into Downton for Matthew and Mary’s wedding, but with the couple’s relationship under strain will they even make it to the altar?
New footman Alfred strives to meet Carson’s high standards, under the watchful eye of his aunt O’Brien.
Robert’s shocking news brings financial worries to the fore, on an unprecedented scale. Might he lose Downton itself and all it stands for?
Downton Abbey
Episode: 1*of*8
Sunday, 16 September 2012,*9:00PM*
Cora’s mother sweeps into Downton for Matthew and Mary’s wedding, but with the couple’s relationship under strain will they even make it to the altar?
New footman Alfred strives to meet Carson’s high standards, under the watchful eye of his aunt O’Brien.
Robert’s shocking news brings financial worries to the fore, on an unprecedented scale. Might he lose Downton itself and all it stands for?
tammyy2j
06-09-2012, 12:26
Downton Abbey will return to ITV1 on Sunday, September 16 at 9pm.
The series three premiere date was confirmed by the broadcaster today (September 5).
Created by Oscar-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, the first series of Downton Abbey premiered on ITV1 on September 26, 2010.
A second series screened a year later and a Christmas Special followed.
The ensemble cast features Hugh Bonneville as Earl of Grantham Robert Crawley, Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess and Brendan Coyle as valet Charles Carson.
Fellowes and the cast screened preview footage of the third year of the show earlier this year and said that financial woes and the Troubles in Ireland would dominate the series.
Shirley MacLaine has been cast as Lady Grantham's mother Martha Levinson for the upcoming episodes.
Downton Abbey
Episode: 2 of 8
Sunday, 23 September 2012, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
The future of Downton hangs precariously in the balance. In the hope of financial rescue from her American grandmother Mary and Violet conspire to make sure Downton puts on a bigger show than ever before with a grand party for friends and neighbours. Mrs Hughes faces some worrying personal news, and O’Brien’s efforts to accelerate Alfred’s progress rankle with Thomas.
Chloe O'brien
14-09-2012, 21:44
Oh I can't wait until Sunday night. The dark nights are coming. Great weather for Downton.
Caspiant
15-09-2012, 16:30
I'm looking forward to seeing Shirley Maclaine on the new series.
Downton Abbey
Episode: 3 of 8
Sunday, 30 September 2012, 9:00PM - 10:05PM
Drama
Edith's big day finally arrives. Will her enthusiasm finally convince
the family that Strallan's age does not matter?
It's the end of the line for Downton's finances and Mary takes matters into her own hands, but the personal price could be high.
Mrs Hughes anxiously awaits her results and Anna makes a breakthrough to help Bates. Is O'Brien moving on?
Downton Abbey
Episode: 3 of 8
Sunday, 30 September 2012, 9:00PM - 10:05PM
Drama
Edith's big day finally arrives. Will her enthusiasm finally convince
the family that Strallan's age does not matter?
It's the end of the line for Downton's finances and Mary takes matters into her own hands, but the personal price could be high.
Mrs Hughes anxiously awaits her results and Anna makes a breakthrough to help Bates. Is O'Brien moving on?
Downton Abbey
Episode: 4 of 8
Sunday, 7 October 2012, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
Branson's political views land him in hot water, and Sybil's loyalty is
tested to the limit.
Ethel is torn between head and heart as she makes a difficult decision about her son's future.
Anna is dispirited at Bates's silence, what could be the cause?
Carson begins recruiting a footman, and good-looking candidate Jimmy sparks immediate interest below stairs.
Downton Abbey
Episode: 4 of 8
Sunday, 7 October 2012, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
Branson's political views land him in hot water, and Sybil's loyalty is
tested to the limit.
Ethel is torn between head and heart as she makes a difficult decision about her son's future.
Anna is dispirited at Bates's silence, what could be the cause?
Carson begins recruiting a footman, and good-looking candidate Jimmy sparks immediate interest below stairs.
Congratulations to Maggie Smith for winning an Emmy last night for her performance in Downton Abbey. (Damien Lewis also won for Homeland.)
Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes has revealed that he is interested in creating a prequel to the series.
Fellowes explained at the Bafta Screenwriting Lecture that he would like to focus on the beginning of the relationship between Cora and Robert, according to The Daily Telegraph.
He added that he originally planned the spin-off as a novel, but that ITV would adapt it for television.
"I do actually have an idea of doing a prequel of the courtship of Robert and Cora, when all those American heiresses were arriving in London - the Buccaneers, as they were called," Fellowes explained.
"They had a slightly troubled courtship, because she was in love with him before they married, as we know, and he married her entirely for her money. I sort of feel there's something quite nice in there because he's a decent [man], and so he feels rather guilty about this."
Robert and Cora are played in the original Downton Abbey series by Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern, although a pair of young actors would take on the roles for the prequel.
However, Fellowes revealed that he does not want to air the prequel until Downton Abbey has ended, saying: "I don't think you can continue a narrative in more than one area at once."
Downton Abbey airs on Sundays at 9pm on ITV1.
DOWNTON ABBEY star Amy Nuttall was stunned to learn her disgraced character would return to the series – as a hooker.
Amy plays housemaid Ethel Parks, who was sacked after becoming pregnant by an Army major during the last series.
Amy — who joined the ITV period drama last year — admits she thought viewers had seen the last of the feisty single mum and her baby son Charlie.
She told TV Biz: “I was told that was it. So it was a very nice, welcome, surprise phone call that I received late last year to say that writer Julian Fellowes felt he hadn’t quite finished the storyline off.
“It was great to come back and see what else he had written for Ethel — and it was a very unexpected storyline. But actually you go, ‘Yeah, that makes sense.’ Ethel probably would resort to certain ways.
“Back in those days, having a child out of wedlock was the worst thing that could happen to a young woman. You were spurned from society, by everybody.”
Downton fans saw Isobel Crawley (Penelope Wilton) recognise Ethel in last Sunday’s episode — the second of the current series — at a centre in York for women seeking help.
But the troubled former servant turned on her heels, saying she was not yet ready to speak to Mrs Crawley.
The storyline reflects the reality for a number of single mothers at the time, some having lost their bread-winning husbands in the First World War.
Former Emmerdale actress Amy said: “What happens to Ethel happened to thousands of women. It’s not like in this day and age, when we have the welfare state.
“It’s not unusual today to have babies out of wedlock but it leaves Ethel hugely dependent on the kindness of others.”
“Fortunately for Ethel, Mrs Crawley has stumbled across her in unlikely surroundings and she goes out of her way to help her.”
Joanne Froggatt, who plays head housemaid Anna Bates, says: “We were very excited to have Amy — and Ethel — back.”
Tonight’s episode at 9pm sees Anna make a breakthrough in her bid to free jailed husband John Bates (Brendan Coyle), while Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael), is set to marry Sir Anthony Strallan (Robert Bathurst).
But there’s plenty of trouble back at the big house with downstairs Downton at war. Next week sees the arrival of handsome new footman Jimmy Kent, played by Ed Speelers, who catches the eye of the ladies — and gay valet Thomas (Rob James Collier).
Former Coronation Street star Rob says: “Thomas gets involved in something that he thinks is love. And he may be right and he may be wrong.
We see a side of Thomas that we’ve not really seen. It takes him on a really emotional journey. For the first time I think we really explore his sexuality and how that affects him during the Edwardian time.”
Rob added: “What a burden it must be keeping a secret like that, not being able to allow yourself to be who you are — because you’d be put in prison or get chastised for being against God and seen as something evil, when we know that’s not the case. But in those times, unfortunately, that’s how it was seen.”
The relationship fuels the feud between Thomas and his former ally, lady’s maid Sarah O’Brien (Siobhan Finneran) as she seizes every opportunity to get the upper hand.
Rob explained: “You see them both going at each other, claws out. It builds to a big crescendo at the end of the series. I found some of the scenes upsetting.
“O’Brien and Thomas have this one-upmanship which evolves and escalates and turns into something quite nasty, which drags other members of the downstairs fraternity into this whirlwind of malevolence.”
Things also boil over in the kitchen with next week’s arrival of new kitchen maid Ivy Stuart, played by Cara Theobold.
Cara said: “Downton Abbey was my first audition ever.
“My parents are huge fans of the show and my mum did a lot of screaming down the phone when she found out I’d got it.
“It’s been really crazy. I left drama school at Easter to start work. My first day was my first experience of being on a film set.
“To start my career on something like this is incredible.
“And I couldn’t believe that it actually is a working kitchen.
“Having been a big fan of the show myself it was really surreal to actually be there and see everyone as you see them on screen.”
Downtrodden Daisy will finally get her long-awaited promotion to assistant cook but her delight is short-lived as she sees how pretty — and popular — her replacement Ivy is. Cara explained: “Daisy isn’t very welcoming and Ivy bears the brunt of her being horrible.
“Ivy is at the bottom of the pile and Daisy is the one telling her off.”
Sophie McShera, who plays Daisy, adds: “Ivy is Daisy’s nemesis! It’s one of those things where Daisy has wished for something so long. Then it comes along and she’s really pretty and Daisy’s livid.
“Because Daisy has been treated so badly in the past, she thinks that’s how she should be with Ivy. She’s horrid in a childish way.”
Not that Sophie thinks cook Mrs Patmore (Lesley Nicol) has been unfair to Daisy.
She says: “Mrs Patmore is very bossy. You wouldn’t mess with her but she’s not horrible. She’s like a mother to Daisy and really looks out for her.”
Sadly, the promotion doesn’t mean a long-awaited smart new kitchen outfit for Daisy.
Sophie grimaces: “I get a hat and that’s it!”
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/4563657/Amy-Nuttall-shocked-to-learn-Ethel-coming-back.html#ixzz27vlsvpZK
Downton Abbey
Episode: 5 of 8
Sunday, 14 October 2012, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
An exciting offer for Edith divides opinion.
Isobel throws Ethel a lifeline.
New maid Ivy is attracting attention below stairs, and Alfred’s interest in particular is resented by Daisy.
Anna’s perseverance finally pays off. Matthew’s concerns about the estate grow but are his protests falling on deaf ears?
Downton Abbey
Episode: 5 of 8
Sunday, 14 October 2012, 9:00PM - 10:00PM
An exciting offer for Edith divides opinion.
Isobel throws Ethel a lifeline.
New maid Ivy is attracting attention below stairs, and Alfred’s interest in particular is resented by Daisy.
Anna’s perseverance finally pays off. Matthew’s concerns about the estate grow but are his protests falling on deaf ears?
The third series of Downton Abbey continues on ITV1. Here's some insight into the third episode of the hugely popular drama
Downstairs, the younger Downton servants are all of a flutter thanks to handsome new footman, Jimmy. Played by Eragon actor Ed Speleers, Jimmy (Carson insists he will be named 'James' upstairs), soon puts Alfred's noise out of joint, but he also sparks Thomas' interest. Is he a ladies' man or is he gay?
http://db2.stb.s-msn.com/i/3B/A78D39CCFFB22E71C9D4DD64DEDE9.jpg
Chloe O'brien
08-10-2012, 12:02
Another fabulous episode last night. Dame Maggie's one-liners get better and better everyweek. I was gobbed smacked at her "Johnny Foriegners" remark about the Irish but had to laugh. Poor Matthew has a tough job on his hands, O'brien revenge on Thomas is simmering along nicely and we have the wonderful Mr Bates & Anna's romance warming the cockles of our hearts through these cold dark nights.
Another fabulous episode last night. Dame Maggie's one-liners get better and better everyweek. I was gobbed smacked at her "Johnny Foriegners" remark about the Irish but had to laugh. Poor Matthew has a tough job on his hands, O'brien revenge on Thomas is simmering along nicely and we have the wonderful Mr Bates & Anna's romance warming the cockles of our hearts through these cold dark nights.
Maggie Smiths attitude last night was so typical of the attitude of tha English aristocracy at the time. Downton is a fabulous show and just the thing for a winters evening.
Downton Abbey
Episode: 6*of*8
Sunday, 21 October 2012,*9:00PM*-*10:00PM
Drama
Tempers fray as Isobel’s kind gesture backfires.
Branson’s decisions are put under scrutiny, but Mary fights his corner.
Robert and Cora’s relationship suffers, can Violet make them see things differently?
As Bates’s chance of freedom slips away he goes to extreme lengths.
How sad was Downton last night. Couldn't believe that Sybil actually died! :(
How sad was Downton last night. Couldn't believe that Sybil actually died! :(
I was in tears :crying: Still love the programme though :thumbsup:
Me too. Can't wait for next week.
Downton Abbey star Brendan Coyle has revealed that the cast know when the show will end.
The actor, who plays valet John Bates, joked that the hit period drama would turn into Emmerdale if it continued into a more recent era.
"I can pretty much say all of us know when Downton is going to end," Coyle told the Radio Times.
"This is a show with a finite life. If we bring this into the '50s, it's Emmerdale."
Speaking of his own character, who is accused of his wife's murder, he added: "Bates was in the Boer War. He would have killed a lot of people. Does that mean he can kill his wife? What does it do to you?"
Insiders have predicted that Downton Abbey will run for two more series, before drawing to a close when key actors move on to other projects.
Jessica Brown Findlay, who *played Lady Sybil, is already filming Winter's Tale with Russell Crowe, while Michelle Dockery and Rob James-Collier apparently want to launch US careers.
Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes recently revealed that he is interested in creating a prequel to the series, focusing on the beginning of the relationship between Cora and Robert.
Downton Abbey
Episode: 8 of 8
Sunday, 4 November 2012, 9:00PM - 10:30PM
Drama
There is excitement in the house and village as the annual cricket match approaches, and it brings out Robert’s competitive side.
As Violet’s great niece Rose arrives, a trip to London reveals there is more to her than meets the eye.
Thomas’s future is in Carson’s hands, but Bates may be an unlikely ally.
What secrets are Mary and Matthew holding back from each other?
Downton Abbey
Episode: 8 of 8
Sunday, 4 November 2012, 9:00PM - 10:30PM
Drama
There is excitement in the house and village as the annual cricket match approaches, and it brings out Robert’s competitive side.
As Violet’s great niece Rose arrives, a trip to London reveals there is more to her than meets the eye.
Thomas’s future is in Carson’s hands, but Bates may be an unlikely ally.
What secrets are Mary and Matthew holding back from each other?
Glad to see Bates has finally got a chance to be freed,especially for a crime he didn't commit.I wonder if he'll get his old job back.
We’ve had a wedding, a jilting, a birth, a tragic death and many more moments of high drama. Let’s face it, Sunday nights just won’t be the same without Downton Abbey!
It’s been another wildly successful year for British television’s poshest period series. Nudging 10 million viewers per episode, it’s one of the few shows to match and even eclipse the ratings of TV juggernauts such as The X Factor, Strictly Come Dancing and the big three soaps.
Highlights of the third run have included Hollywood legend Shirley MacLaine’s guest role as an outspoken American heiress, Matthew and Lady Mary’s wedding and Lady Sybil dying shortly after giving birth.
But without doubt the most heart-warming storyline of the series has been the romantic reunion of Anna and her jailbird hubby John Bates.
http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1411555.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Downton+Abbey+
Bowled over: Bates and Anna attend the annual cricket match
ITV
Lord Grantham’s valet was wrongly banged up for murdering his ex-wife Vera. And Brendan Coyle admits that being locked away from the rest of the Downton characters felt very real.
“I did feel isolated and very removed from the main show,” admits Brendan, who plays Bates. “Most of my scenes were filmed in Lincoln where there’s a perfectly preserved Victorian prison.”
Thankfully, after some impressive amateur sleuthing, Bates’ dutiful missus was able to find the vital evidence which secured his release. Joanna Froggatt, who plays Anna, says her character’s tireless determination to prove her husband’s innocence confirms their devotion to each other.
“Anna has always had 100 per cent faith in John,” says Joanna. “She’s completely in love with him. From the moment they first met, Anna has had the feeling that Bates is a really decent guy. That’s why she fell for him.”
Last week, the couple were reunited at Downton and Bates was reinstated as the Earl’s valet.
This week, in the season finale, Bates proves to be an unlikely ally for scheming Thomas – who was not pleased to see John back at the Great House.
Elsewhere, Mary and Matthew may have been hiding secrets from each other, and the annual cricket match causes much excitement.
Downton Abbey is now a huge hit in America, where it has stormed the ratings and was recently nominated for 16 Emmy awards. Joanne admits attending such glitzy events is a real perk of the job.
“Award ceremonies in America are on such a huge scale,” she says. “It takes about 90 minutes to get down the red carpet and I was totally star struck to see actor Chris Noth, who plays Mr Big from Sex And The City.”
http://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-previews/downton-abbey-romantic-reunion-between-1413510
Dame Maggie Smith has been taken to hospital suffering from chest pains.
The Downton Abbey actress was admitted on Friday (November 2) after complaining of severe pains, according to the Sunday Mirror.
The 77-year-old, who stars as Violet Crawley in the ITV1 drama, was taken to a cardiac unit at the Wellington Hospital, London and reportedly underwent a series of tests before being discharged later that day.
A source told the newspaper that "it was a big scare" for Smith, adding: "It was extremely distressing for her but she did the right thing and made sure she got to hospital as soon as possible."
The insider went on to question Smith's future in Downton Abbey, saying that she would "have to think very carefully now about whether she stays in the show".
"Her health always comes first and I am sure she will take advice from the experts," they added.
Smith has previously suffered from breast cancer, and in 2009 revealed that she thought about ending her career after going through chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes has confirmed that a fourth series of the period drama is likely. :cheer::cheer::cheer:
He continued: "I am pleased with this [third] series. I thought it worked well.
"It seems to me that the actors have made a very good job of it and the audience response has been great and they kept watching."
Downton Abbey star Brendan Coyle - who plays Bates - recently claimed that he and his fellow cast members know when the show will end, since it has a "finite life".
Downton Abbey has been picked up for a fourth series.
The Emmy-winning period drama will return to ITV1 in autumn 2013 with eight new episodes.
A special extended episode will also air at Christmas 2013, with filming set to begin in February next year.
Gareth Neame - exec producer - said: "Viewers can look forward to more drama, comedy, love, hatred, jealousy, rivalry, ambition, despair and romance."
Laura Mackie, Director of Drama at ITV, added: "We're thrilled to welcome back a drama series that has become a much anticipated part of all our lives every autumn and achieved success around the globe.
"Creator, writer and executive producer Julian Fellowes and the production team, led by Gareth and the producer Liz Trubridge, never rest on their laurels and have exciting plans for the fourth series."
Downton Abbey will also return to ITV1 this Christmas for a two-hour festive special, to air on December 25 at 9pm.
"We hope the Downton family of viewers will gather together to watch this major TV event as a shared Christmas night experience," said Mackie.
"Last year's special episode set the nation talking on Boxing Day and 2012's Christmas Day episode is no different.
"As ever, Downton will take its audience through a whole range of emotions. All of life's experiences will feature in this episode. This is one episode you will want to see live with millions of others - and best have the tissues ready."
Chloe O'brien
25-11-2012, 00:40
:cheer::cheer::cheer: YES!!! It's coming back for a forth series I can't wait. I love Downton. It's a rare thing for me to enjoy a British tv programme were I love all the characters.(yes even O'Brien) I can't wait to see the two hour special on Christmas Day. A word of warning to Mr Fellows if he causes heartbreak for Matthew and Mary he will have me to deal with. What he did to Lady Sybil was despicable.
Ohhhh nooo, Kath, looks like bad news :(
Dan Stevens will reportedly not return for the fourth series of Downton Abbey.
The actor is said to be taking part in the first episode of the new series, due to air next year, but will then depart the costume drama.
Although the reports have not officially been confirmed by ITV, a source from the show's production team told the Sunday Express: "Dan Stevens isn't returning to the series. He will probably do the first episode of the fourth series, but that will be it."
On Thursday (November 23), ITV confirmed that Downton Abbey has been picked up for a fourth series and a Christmas special in 20
However, Stevens will be appearing in this year's two-hour Christmas episode, which sees the Grantham family travel to Scotland, leaving the majority of the servants behind.
The 30-year-old actor is currently in the US performing in Broadway show The Heiress with Jessica Chastain.
Read more: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tv/s183/downton-abbey/news/a440705/downton-abbey-dan-stevens-not-returning-for-fourth-series.html#ixzz2DGOwVHfB
tammyy2j
26-11-2012, 14:06
I'd prefer Mary and Matthew leaving together happy than him leaving on his own or dying
Downton Abbey
Episode: 1*of*1
Tuesday, 25 December 2012,*8:45PM*-*10:45PM
Drama
*
The family receive a warm welcome at Duneagle Castle, visiting Rose and her parents in the Highlands. But there is no disguising the tensions between their hosts.
Carson is determined to keep the servants back at Downton working hard, but with a country fair coming up, will some be tempted to push their luck?
Could romance be on the cards for Mrs Patmore?
Downton Abbey
Episode: 1*of*1
Tuesday, 25 December 2012,*8:45PM*-*10:45PM
Drama
*
The family receive a warm welcome at Duneagle Castle, visiting Rose and her parents in the Highlands. But there is no disguising the tensions between their hosts.
Carson is determined to keep the servants back at Downton working hard, but with a country fair coming up, will some be tempted to push their luck?
Could romance be on the cards for Mrs Patmore?
Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes has addressed Dan Stevens's rumoured exit from the series.
Stevens - who plays Matthew Crawley on the hit period drama - will reportedly depart Downton in 2013 following the fourth series premiere.
"Sometimes actors feel they want to move on," Fellowes told Entertainment Weekly. "Initially, for the first two or three [seasons] you can contract them, but after that, every season, you have to re-contract them.
He added: "If they don't want to come back, there's nothing we can do."
However, Fellowes insisted that he will not recast the role of Matthew should Stevens ultimately opt to quit Downton.
"I can't see us doing that," said the Oscar-winning writer.
Fellowes also claimed that the recently-confirmed fourth series of Downton Abbey will likely pick up soon after the events of series three's finale.
"I think we'll go on jogging quite happily through the '20s," he revealed. "You know there's always a little time jump. We did two years between [seasons] one and two because we only wanted to spend two years in the war so we had to start halfway through the war. Now we don't have those imperatives."
Downton Abbey will return to ITV1 this Christmas for a festive special, with the full fourth series following next year. In the US, the third run will debut on PBS on January 6.
Read more: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tv/s183/downton-abbey/news/a442906/downton-abbey-wont-recast-matthew-crawley-says-julian-fellowes.html#ixzz2E9pPtoib
Downton Abbey exec Gareth Neame has refused to confirm rumours of Dan Stevens's exit.
Rumours that the actor would be leaving the hit ITV period drama first began to circulate last month, with TVLine later claiming that "multiple sources" had confirmed Stevens's departure.
"There's been so much speculation about this cast," Neame told The Hollywood Reporter. "The thing with the show is, because we don't make a long run - we shoot about 11 hours of TV a year - our actors have the opportunity to go and do other work."
The executive producer refused to give a definitive answer on whether Stevens would reprise his role of Matthew Crawley full-time.
"As to which cast is coming or going, we don't comment on speculation," he said "But 95% of what I read in the papers is completely inaccurate, so that should be taken with a pinch of salt."
Downton Abbey will return to ITV1 this Christmas with a festive special. A full fourth series will then follow in autumn 2013. In the US, the third series of Downton Abbey will debut on PBS on January 6.
Read more: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tv/s183/downton-abbey/news/a445272/downton-abbey-exec-refuses-to-confirm-dan-stevens-exit-rumours.html#ixzz2F8L6EqJl
tammyy2j
26-12-2012, 15:39
Dont know if I will continue watching now without Matthew suppose we can expect Mary to get with Branson now
deadlydave
26-12-2012, 20:47
hate Downton Abbey!!
Chloe O'brien
26-12-2012, 21:45
hate Downton Abbey!!
I second that. I was at my sisters for Christmas dinner and she was watching it while we all played a game of Trivial Pursuits with shots. I kept sneaking glances and caught the last 20 mins. I wish I hadn't as my potty mouth got the better of me when I realised how it's going to end. I'm going to watch it tomorrow. I've said it before that Julian Felllows is a despicable man.
Chloe O'brien
26-12-2012, 21:45
hate Downton Abbey!!
I second that. I was at my sisters for Christmas dinner and she was watching it while we all played a game of Trivial Pursuits with shots. I kept sneaking glances and caught the last 20 mins. I wish I hadn't as my potty mouth got the better of me when I realised how it's going to end. I'm going to watch it tomorrow. I've said it before that Julian Felllows is a despicable man.
deadlydave
26-12-2012, 21:48
I second that. I was at my sisters for Christmas dinner and she was watching it while we all played a game of Trivial Pursuits with shots. I kept sneaking glances and caught the last 20 mins. I wish I hadn't as my potty mouth got the better of me when I realised how it's going to end. I'm going to watch it tomorrow. I've said it before that Julian Felllows is a despicable man.
I couldnt bring myself to watch 20 secs never mind a whole episode! stupid waste of time! in my opinion but everyone else, feel free to watch!! lol
Downton Abbey star Dan Stevens has spoken about his shock departure from the show.
The actor, whose character Matthew Crawley was killed off in last night's (December 25) Christmas special, made the decision not to renew his contract back in February.
"We were always optioned for three years. And when that came up it was a very difficult decision," Stevens told The Daily Telegraph.
"But it felt like a good time to take stock, to take a moment. From a personal point of view, I wanted a chance to do other things. It is a very monopolising job.
"So there is a strange sense of liberation at the same time as great sadness because I am very, very fond of the show and always will be."
Stevens will be on stage as Morris Townsend in The Heiress in New York until February. He's also in talks to star in a new movie based on the story of WikiLeaks.
"It is a desire for freedom really," he added. "I don't see money or a particular status as an actor as a goal but I want to do the best work I can in as interesting a range of roles as I can.
"And I think a moment like this is quite unique and presents those opportunities more than ever before.
"None of us had any idea of how successful Downton was going to be. I thought I was signing up for another period drama that had a slightly modern feel.
"It had a freedom about it because it was coming out of the head of Julian Fellowes. Anything could happen and generally did.
"It was very emotional shooting the end of this series, because those guys are like family. We have been living together for three years and have been on the most amazing journey.
"I don't think any of us, with the possible exception of Maggie [Smith], have had this kind of explosion in our career paths, and may never again. It has been so bizarre, and only those who have been through it can understand it."
ITV wished him "every success for the future" and confirmed that Michelle Dockery will be returning to her role as Lady Mary in series four, which begins production in February.
Read more: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tv/s183/downton-abbey/news/a447283/downton-abbey-star-on-shock-exit-it-was-a-very-difficult-decision.html#article_continue#ixzz2oglkti6J
I couldnt bring myself to watch 20 secs never mind a whole episode! stupid waste of time! in my opinion but everyone else, feel free to watch!! lol
Thanks Dave we will. In fact tomorrow night with a bottle or two of wine
I couldnt bring myself to watch 20 secs never mind a whole episode! stupid waste of time! in my opinion but everyone else, feel free to watch!! lol
Thanks Dave we will. In fact tomorrow night with a bottle or two of wine
deadlydave
28-12-2012, 02:11
I would need 3 or 4 bottles of the finest Russian stuff to watch a minute of the Downton Shabbey!!!
Due to a hectic night in work I may have to put off my viewing of the wonderful Downton Abbey until I sober up tomorrow
parkerman
28-12-2012, 09:27
Julian Felllows is a despicable man.
Why?
Julian Fellowes has revealed that he felt there was no choice but to kill Downtown Abbey character Matthew Crawley in the Christmas Day special.
In the festive edition, viewers saw Matthew - played by Dan Stevens - meet his end in a motoring accident.
Fellowes told The Daily Telegraph that Stevens's decision to leave the period drama meant he "didn't really have an option" but to kill the character on screen.
He said: "We would have loved to keep him. We would have loved to keep Jessica [Brown Findlay, who played Lady Sybil Crawley] too.
"We have always tried to persuade him to stay. He had done fantastically well for the series and his creation of Matthew was terrific.
"But this is life. Dan felt that this was right thing for him, and the right moment to move on to different areas."
The screenwriter said that he would have been open to keeping Matthew alive if Stevens agreed to guest appearances in future, but the actor was adamant that he wanted to move on from the role.
"If he had been prepared to come back for maybe two or three episodes in a series, that would be different. Then we could have had a foreign posting or invented a career that would have made it possible for him to be away," Fellowes explained.
"Otherwise we would have had to make this tremendously successful love affair between Mary and Matthew unhappy, which I didn't feel would be believable.
"For them to then separate and Matthew never set eyes on his son again would not be believable either."
He added: "We didn't really have any option. By him dying, their love can remain in tact."
Stevens will now appear on stage in The Heiress in New York until February and is reportedly in talks for a film based on the story of WikiLeaks.
Julian Fellowes has revealed that he felt there was no choice but to kill Downtown Abbey character Matthew Crawley in the Christmas Day special.
In the festive edition, viewers saw Matthew - played by Dan Stevens - meet his end in a motoring accident.
Fellowes told The Daily Telegraph that Stevens's decision to leave the period drama meant he "didn't really have an option" but to kill the character on screen.
He said: "We would have loved to keep him. We would have loved to keep Jessica [Brown Findlay, who played Lady Sybil Crawley] too.
"We have always tried to persuade him to stay. He had done fantastically well for the series and his creation of Matthew was terrific.
"But this is life. Dan felt that this was right thing for him, and the right moment to move on to different areas."
The screenwriter said that he would have been open to keeping Matthew alive if Stevens agreed to guest appearances in future, but the actor was adamant that he wanted to move on from the role.
"If he had been prepared to come back for maybe two or three episodes in a series, that would be different. Then we could have had a foreign posting or invented a career that would have made it possible for him to be away," Fellowes explained.
"Otherwise we would have had to make this tremendously successful love affair between Mary and Matthew unhappy, which I didn't feel would be believable.
"For them to then separate and Matthew never set eyes on his son again would not be believable either."
He added: "We didn't really have any option. By him dying, their love can remain in tact."
Stevens will now appear on stage in The Heiress in New York until February and is reportedly in talks for a film based on the story of WikiLeaks.
Chloe O'brien
30-12-2012, 22:41
Why?
1) Lady Edith being jilted at alter. (Okay he really wasn't the man for her but still)
2) Killing off Lady Sybil!!!!!!
3) Killing off Matthew. The end of Mary & Matthew. HOW COULD HE :cry:
Chloe O'brien
30-12-2012, 22:41
Why?
1) Lady Edith being jilted at alter. (Okay he really wasn't the man for her but still)
2) Killing off Lady Sybil!!!!!!
3) Killing off Matthew. The end of Mary & Matthew. HOW COULD HE :crying:
parkerman
30-12-2012, 23:12
1) Lady Edith being jilted at alter. (Okay he really wasn't the man for her but still)
2) Killing off Lady Sybil!!!!!!
3) Killing off Matthew. The end of Mary & Matthew. HOW COULD HE :crying:
Did someone else write the rest of Downton Abbey then and he just wrote those bits?
parkerman
30-12-2012, 23:12
1) Lady Edith being jilted at alter. (Okay he really wasn't the man for her but still)
2) Killing off Lady Sybil!!!!!!
3) Killing off Matthew. The end of Mary & Matthew. HOW COULD HE :crying:
Did someone else write the rest of Downton Abbey then and he just wrote those bits?
tammyy2j
15-01-2013, 14:43
Downton Abbey exec producer Gareth Neame confirmed to TVLine Sunday at HBO’s post-Golden Globes bash that Maggie Smith will indeed be returning for the drama’s upcoming fourth season.
Over the summer, Abbey creator Julian Fellowes admitted that even he didn’t know if the Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning actress would be back. “I can’t tell you, ‘Oh, yes, she’s definitely contracted [for Season 4] — because she isn’t,” he said. “It’s entirely up to her when she stays and when she goes.
“With Maggie, you never know,” he added. “Other [actors] sign on for the next series and they sign for this and they sign for that, but she doesn’t. She stays her own person. But as far as I’m concerned, I hope she stays with the show until Downton falls down.”
Smith’s decision to stick around ensures that all of the show’s major castmembers are on board for Season 4, with the exception of Jessica Brown Findlay and Dan Stevens, whose respective characters, Sybil and Matthew, are killed off in Season 3.
Downton Abbey exec Gareth Neame has hinted that the show will "turn in a whole different direction" in the new series.
The hit period drama's 2012 Christmas special concluded with the shock death of Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens).
http://i4.cdnds.net/12/51/618x413/embargoed_downton_abbey_christmas_2012_121.jpg
© ITV
Neame told E! Online that Matthew's wife Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) will attempt to "rebuild her life" in the 2013 episodes.
"This is a lesson in something that seems like a really big loss in the moment, but will actually turn into a great opportunity... which it will also be for the show, to take a turn in a whole different direction," he said.
It was recently confirmed by Neame that Dame Maggie Smith will reprise her role as the Dowager Countess in Downton's fourth run.
The new series is expected to debut on ITV in the autumn, with a 2013 festive special to follow this Christmas. In the US, the third series is currently airing on PBS.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=FakSxBg7Hok
Chloe O'brien
19-01-2013, 20:58
Did someone else write the rest of Downton Abbey then and he just wrote those bits?
No of course he wrote all of it, but killing off two of the most sweet characters was dispicable.
Chloe O'brien
19-01-2013, 20:58
Did someone else write the rest of Downton Abbey then and he just wrote those bits?
No of course he wrote all of it, but killing off two of the most sweet characters was dispicable.
Digital Spy caught up with Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes and star Hugh Bonneville backstage at last night's (January 23) National Television Awards.
The duo, who picked up the 'Best Drama' gong for the ITV series, spoke about the exit of Dan Stevens in the Christmas special and what series four has in store.
Fellowes confessed that he was just as upset as viewers about Stevens's exit, but claimed that he couldn't do anything about it because the actor wanted to leave.
"I'm not going to criticise him," he said. "It's a very funny career to try to make any sense of as I only know too well. And when you definitely feel like something is the right move you've got to do it. But I was very sad."
The writer teased that the departure of Matthew Crawley would dominate future episodes, claiming that "Mary [Michelle Dockery] trying to rebuild her life" would be a dominant theme of series four.
Fellowes also hinted at a return for guest star Shirley MacLaine and suggested that he would be avoiding killing off any further characters this year.
"We don't want it turning into Midsomer Murders, where they live in the same village and 450 people get murdered," he laughed.
Joking about who they would love to see join the cast in the future, Bonneville suggested comic Julian Clary, while Fellowes suggested fellow NTAs winner and Lily Savage star Paul O'Grady.
"Paul O'Grady would be great as Violet's cross-dressing brother," said Fellowes. "Suddenly appearing and introducing a different note in England in 1922."
Downton Abbey begins filming series four in three weeks.
Tom Ellis is reportedly being lined up to star in the next series of Downton Abbey.
The Miranda actor auditioned for the role of Lady Mary's new love *interest and has since been shortlisted for the part by producers, the Sunday Mirror reports.
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© BBC
Tom Ellis in 'Miranda'
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© WENN / Daniel Deme
Tom Ellis with wife Tamzin Outhwaite
An ITV source said: "Tom has always been popular but he has really become hot property since his role as Gary in Miranda.
"He really showed his versatility and he's also incredibly popular with the female viewers. It was an absolute no-brainer to get him in for an audition.
"We know that Tom's got a lot of other options at the moment but if he does get the role it will be an incredible opportunity for him. A lot of the current cast have become global superstars.
"And it is always a bit of a coup for us to attract a *major BBC star to a flagship ITV show like Downton *Abbey."
Lady Mary, played by Michelle Dockery, seemingly lost husband Matthew (Dan *Stevens) in a car crash during Downton Abbey's Christmas special. Her new romance will be a key plot in the next series.
MIRANDA star Tom Ellis has ruled out joining the cast of Downton Abbey.
Rumour was that the BBC sitcom’s heart-throb would be a new love interest for Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) in the next series of ITV toffs drama Downton.
But Tom tweeted: “OK, so it’s been lovely to hear all the congrats for Downton but the truth is I’m not going to be in it... but thank you for your messages xxx”
Yet Tom, wed to actress Tamzin Outhwaite, did reveal he has landed a role in a pilot for new American TV horror series Gothica.
He is to play Victor Frankenstein in the show, described as a “sexy gothic soap” set in the present day, and will appear with Smash actor Raza Jaffrey.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/4809830/Miranda-actor-Tom-Ellis-denies-he-is-joining-Downton-Abbey.html#ixzz2Lm7mrRfF
MIRANDA star Tom Ellis has ruled out joining the cast of Downton Abbey.
Rumour was that the BBC sitcom’s heart-throb would be a new love interest for Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) in the next series of ITV toffs drama Downton.
But Tom tweeted: “OK, so it’s been lovely to hear all the congrats for Downton but the truth is I’m not going to be in it... but thank you for your messages xxx”
Yet Tom, wed to actress Tamzin Outhwaite, did reveal he has landed a role in a pilot for new American TV horror series Gothica.
He is to play Victor Frankenstein in the show, described as a “sexy gothic soap” set in the present day, and will appear with Smash actor Raza Jaffrey.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/4809830/Miranda-actor-Tom-Ellis-denies-he-is-joining-Downton-Abbey.html#ixzz2Lm7mrRfF
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