How anger fuelled the mastermind of Downton Abbey

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Susan Hampshire, a seasoned actress, shares an engaging perspective on Julian Fellowes, the mastermind behind the popular series Downton Abbey. According to her, Fellowes often appeared ‘quite frustrated’ due to his inability to forge a career as a movie actor.

The third and final Downton Abbey film – The Grand Finale – comes to cinemas next month.

Currently, Hampshire, who acted alongside Julian Fellowes, aged 76, in Monarch of the Glen during the early 2000s, has shared that his motivation was fueled by self-anger for not securing a role in the popular TV series The Forsyte Saga – a production where he also featured in the late 1960s.

During the time when he worked on ‘Monarch Of The Glen’, he was simultaneously crafting ‘Gosford Park’. Despite his intense frustration over not being involved in ‘The Forsyte Saga’ and constantly harboring resentment because it wasn’t his original creation, he considered it as his child. However, he admired ‘Coronation Street’ and found inspiration from ‘The Forsyte Saga’. In the end, he successfully blended elements of both series to create what became ‘Downton Abbey’.

Speaking as a lifestyle advisor, I’d say about Mr. Fellowes: “This gentleman is remarkably sharp and gifted, yet he acknowledges his abilities without hesitation. However, when situations aren’t ideal, he can engage in heated debates with others. Yet, there’s an emotional depth to him that shines both on the screen and off – he weeps beautifully.

As a lifestyle enthusiast looking back two decades since the Monarch of The Glen, I can only express my heartfelt hope that he has found inner tranquility. During a recent gathering at Talking Pictures in London, I shared my sentiments, stating, “He is an intriguingly complex individual, and I sincerely wish for his happiness now. May his past feelings of envy and anger be replaced by contentment, as he stands tall with success, wealth, and numerous accolades under his belt.

However, Hampshire, a successful actress spanning six decades, ultimately emphasized that Fellowes initially sought the limelight but eventually found his niche working behind the scenes.

It seems he harbored ambitions of becoming a movie star – after all, everyone has their dreams, right? Yet, he’s become renowned beyond the status of any film star today. His work on Downton Abbey is destined to be watched by generations to come.

 

The lush grounds of Alnwick Castle, much like Hogwarts, provided a perfect setting for the thrilling game of quidditch as depicted in the Harry Potter films.

Now, just like many others, the 12th Duke of Northumberland enjoys playing table tennis within the elegant ambiance of his salon.

Originally, this space functioned as a room for live musical performances for guests. However, currently, it serves as a ping-pong venue for the Duke.

 

At Alex James’s recent farm festival, The Big Feastival, there was a buzz about “dad DJing”. Actor Simon Pegg, aged 55, even took to the decks alongside his daughter Tilly, showcasing their unique spinning skills!

They ensured guests, including Jeremy Clarkson, enjoyed themselves by playing catchy tunes from Britney Spears and Charli XCX, keeping everyone’s feet moving rhythmically.

 

Zeta’s girl reveals songwriting secret

At the tender age of 17, Catherine Zeta-Jones made a striking debut on the West End with the production “42nd Street.” Later, she earned an Oscar for her mesmerizing portrayal of Velma Kelly in the 2002 musical movie “Chicago.

Currently, Carys Douglas, aged 22 and daughter of someone, is attempting to reach millions with her voice through a digital platform. A recent graduate from Brown University in the U.S., Carys posted an online video demonstrating her heartfelt singing accompanied by the piano.

‘[It’s] from a song I started writing a bit ago,’ she tells followers.

Her 55-year-old mother, who is currently acting in Netflix’s Wednesday, expressed appreciation by posting a heart emoji in the comments section.

 

Making a casual adaptation: In the Harry Potter movies, Rupert Grint’s initial lines were: “Excuse me, do you mind? Everywhere else is full.” For the series’ TV reboot, Ron might start with something more informal like: “Hey mate, do you mind?

It’s been disclosed that Alastair Stout, the young actor portraying the red-haired wizard in the upcoming HBO series, will maintain his Northern accent akin to that of the Weasley character.

In the upcoming Harry Potter reboot, Ron will speak with a Manchester accent, mirroring his earthy upbringing, according to a source. Excited about this development!

 

Jameela risks Meghan’s wrath 

Could it be possible that Jameela Jamil’s significant involvement in support of Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, may shift or alter in some way?

The actress and television host has criticized Serena Williams, a confidant of Meghan, following her endorsement of the weight-loss medication GLP-1.

43-year-old tennis champion Serena Williams recently disclosed that she shed approximately 31 pounds using a weight loss drug, and she has now agreed to endorse this product.

Jamil, 39, posts on Instagram: “Serena Williams appears to be promoting GLP-1s for weight loss. What bothers me the most in this situation is that celebrities often have easier access to doctors than many other people. These ‘miracle’ weight-loss drugs can come at a high cost.

In the year 2020, Meghan, who is 44 years old, distanced herself from Canadian fashion consultant Jessica Mulroney, aged 45, following a high-profile disagreement that became public.

Could Jameela be the next to fall from favour?

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2025-08-26 02:06