Downton Abbey became one of the biggest and most unlikely hits in the mid-2010s. It captivated audiences and introduced many little-known actors to the world stage. The show's success transformed these actors into stars, some of whom have since become household names!
In this article, we will explore seven actors—both big and small—who graced the fictional estate belonging to the Crawley family. You might be surprised to learn about the journeys these stars took before they became famous. Let’s take a closer look at their stories!
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Rose Leslie
Rose Leslie became a fan favorite on Game of Thrones, playing Ygritte. But before that, she portrayed Gwen Dawson, a maid in Downton Abbey. She appeared in eight episodes of the show, including all of season one.
Gwen had dreams of becoming a secretary, which was encouraged by Lady Sybil, played by Jessica Brown Findlay. Sybil connected Gwen with a businessman, helping her achieve her aspirations. In the final season, Gwen returns after 11 years, revealing her rise in social status and recalling Sybil's kindness.
Charlie Cox
Charlie Cox is best known for his role as Daredevil. Before that, he played Phillip Villiers, Duke of Crowborough, on Downton Abbey. He seemed to pursue Lady Mary Crawley but found himself involved with footman Thomas Barrow instead.
Charlie’s character shared a brief romance with Thomas but left when he realized Lady Mary wasn’t a wealthy prize. This plot twist added depth to his character and showcased the complexities of relationships at Downton.
Lily James
Lily James is now a household name, starring in films like Disney’s Cinderella and Hulu’s Pam & Tommy. However, she was a staple of Downton Abbey, playing Lady Rose, the adventurous cousin of the Crawley family.
Lady Rose brought joy back to the estate after Lady Sybil's death. Despite her rebellious spirit, she eventually married Atticus Aldridge and had a daughter, Victoria Rachel Cora, adding a new chapter to the Crawley legacy.
Paul Giamatti
Paul Giamatti surprised fans with his appearance on Downton Abbey. Known for roles in Sideways and Billions, he played Harold Levinson, Cora Crawley’s brother. His character, an American, stood out among his British counterparts.
During his stay at the Crawley’s London home for Rose’s ball, he became interested in Lord Aysgarth's daughter, Madeleine Allsopp. This added a layer of transatlantic charm to the show, showcasing the cultural differences of the time.
Dan Stevens
Dan Stevens played Matthew Crawley, a pivotal character in the series. His sudden departure in season 3 due to a tragic car accident left fans heartbroken. However, his exit opened doors for new opportunities, including leading roles in Legion and the live-action Beauty and the Beast.
In interviews, Dan expressed gratitude for his time on Downton, acknowledging the importance of following one's instincts in career choices. His journey reminds us that sometimes, endings can lead to new beginnings!
Iain Glen
Iain Glen is well-known for his role as Jorah Mormont in Game of Thrones. He also appeared in Downton Abbey as Richard Carlisle, a suitor to Lady Mary. His character was portrayed as a mean-spirited snob, adding tension to the storyline.
While Richard’s intentions seemed genuine, Lady Mary ultimately chose Matthew Crawley. This plot twist emphasized the show's theme of love overcoming societal expectations.
James Faulkner
James Faulkner also appeared in Game of Thrones as Randyll Tarly, a villainous character. In Downton Abbey, he played Lord Sinderby, a disapproving father disapproving of his son's relationship with Lady Rose. His character emphasized the conflicts between tradition and love.
James's portrayal of Lord Sinderby highlighted the challenges faced by those who dared to defy societal norms. It reminds us of the importance of acceptance and understanding in relationships.
