Watch: Downton Abbey, the TV Series & Feature Film
For six glorious seasons, millions of us were hopelessly besotted with the Victorian splendor of Downton Abbey. Julian Fellowes, the creator, while visiting his friends, the current Lord and Lady Carnarvon, imagined how he could use Highclere Castle as the backdrop for a storyline inspired by Lady Almina and the 5th Earl of Carnarvan. And I dare say millions of us are thrilled that the seed that was planted at Highclere in Fellowes’ mind became the most critically acclaimed English television series in 2011 recognized by the Guinness World Records. The anticipation of each week’s new episode, and the agony of having to wait for the next season was experienced all around the world.. Okay, I’m being dramatic, but I’m not far off the mark, right?
The TV series is set in the fictional Yorkshire country castle of Downton Abbey post-Edwardian era. It depicts the lives of the Countess (an American heiress) and Earl of Grantham and their three daughters - Ladies’ Mary, Edith, and Sybil. It also documents their long list of domestic servants, the way of life for both the upstairs and the downstairs, and how the events of the day have an effect on all of them and their positions in society.
A lot happened during the fourteen years the six series covered.The first episode of the first season begins the day after the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, and the first season ends right after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Events that follow in the second season include the Battle of the Somme, and the Spanish influenza pandemic. Later events throughout the series chronicle the Irish War of Independence, the establishment of the Irish Free State, the Teapot Scandal, and the British election in 1923.The show does an excellent job highlighting the disparity between the upper class and the lower class during a time when only birth determined what you likely could and would be. Near the end of the show, you finally see the rise of the working class and the beginning of the decline of the British aristocracy.
The storyline initially focuses on the relationship between Lady Mary and Matthew after her second cousin whom she has promised to marry has perished during the sinking of the Titanic. Matthew, a distant cousin who resists embracing an aristocratic lifestyle, is the next heir presumptive. Their rocky relationship remains primary, but several subplots begin to emerge. Aaaaaand you are hooked for the duration.
The cast of Downton Abbey was top-notch spectacular! For the record, there were a total of 255 cast members. I had so many favorites, but the absolute standout for me was Dame Maggie Smith who played Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham. There is a reason she is often called a “National Treasure.” For me, her droll sense of humor and her mastery of facial expressions were the highlight of each week’s episode. It’s hard to believe, but Maggie Smith admitted she has never watched the TV show. Even so, that didn’t stop her from stealing every scene she was in.
As each season ends, lives and fortunes at Downton Abbey change dramatically. And as you watch (or rewatch!) and enjoy all of the dramatic tumbles and fumbles within the Crawley family, and the delicious tensions happening downstairs, you will understand why the show is so beloved, has enjoyed such resounding success, and has found a permanent place in many hearts.
Don’t miss the READ portion of our Downton Abbey Bundle, and of course check out our GO guide to Downton’s main filming location: Highclare Castle!
