Hugh Bonneville discusses success of Downton Abbey

Hugh BonnevilleHugh Bonneville has discussed the success of ITV’s Edwardian drama Downton Abbey believing the audience fascination with the class system is partly responsible.

Hugh BonnevilleHugh Bonneville has discussed the success of ITV’s Edwardian drama Downton Abbey. The drama, penned by Gosford Park writer Julian Fellowes, launched on ITV in the Autumn to critical acclaim and stunning ratings. Downton Abbey was the most successful new drama on ITV for several years with audiences topping 10 million viewers. It’s star stunned cast included Maggie Smith, Penelope Wilton, Hugh Bonneville, Jim Carter, Phyllis Logan, Brendan Coyle, Dan Stevens, Elisabeth McGovern and Michelle Dockery. Hugh Bonneville, discussing the success of Downton Abbey, believes the British fascination with class is partly responsible.

“This country is currently in a complete mess and the pre-First World War era was, rightly or wrongly, one in which the structure of society worked. Our show coincided with this country losing its confidence, while we were looking back to a time of dignity and mutual respect – simple values that we slightly p*ss on these days. I don’t think I’d like to live then… but as somewhere to go to for a couple of hours on a Sunday night? Yes, I’d rather live in that world.” – Hugh Bonneville speaking to the Radio Times

ITV have ordered a second series of Downton Abbey and a Christmas Special to air later this year. It was recently announced that new cast members for the second series would include Maria Doyle Kennedy, Amy Nuttall and Iain Glen. Hugh Bonneville recently filmed an episode of Doctor Who in which he plays  a pirate.