LOS ANGELES (KUTV) — It's an early 8:00 a.m. in Los Angeles as I dial into the magical ether that makes it possible for me to talk, see and talk with actors somewhere on the other side of the world. I wouldn't normally do an interview on my phone, but I also couldn't pass on the opportunity to talk with Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Penelope Wiltonand Joanne Froggat about "Downton Abbey: A New Era," the newest chapter in the popular British franchise.
I can't help but be impressed by the fact that series creator Julian Fellowes has been able to keep actors who have healthy careers coming back to Downton Abbey for 12 years. Talking with the actors, it is instantly clear they love their roles, co-stars and filmmakers they have had the opportunity to work with.
I don't particularly care for stories about the rich and famous. So, it was the downstairs staff that served as my gateway into the Downton Abbey franchise. In time, I came to enjoy the stuffy upstairs characters, as well. There is a downside to privilege. A privilege I'd happily trade for, but to suggest that being an aristocrat is painless isn't completely true.
So, here's a little downstairs and upstairs conversation. A tiny look at the actors who play some of your favorite characters.