“I think the reason why people love 'Downton Abbey' is because all the characters are given the same weight. Some are nice, some are not, but it has nothing to do with class or oppressors versus the oppressed.”

English actor, novelist, writer, producer, film director, and Conservative peer

Julian Fellowes, born Julian Alexander Kitchener-Fellowes, is an English actor, novelist, writer, producer, film director, and Conservative peer. He is best known for his work across film, television, and theatre, and for the recognition it has brought him, including an Academy Award and two Emmy Awards. His career spans several creative fields, with further nominations for four BAFTA Awards, a Golden Globe Award, two Olivier Awards, and a Tony Award. He is associated with both screen and stage work, and his public profile combines artistic achievement with his role in the British peerage.