Congratulations Downton Abbey

Splendid news last night for Downton Abbey as it managed to scoop the Best Drama award at this year’s National Television Awards, beating Dr Who, Merlin (also a great favourites of mine) and Waterloo Road.

The  Downton  Cast

 

I have got to say whilst this show may have its critics; I believe some newspaper linked it with an accompaniment to cheese on toast, I love it. So I think did 8.1 million viewers at Christmas. Yes it may be a bit sentimental and may give a somewhat distorted impression of the class system which existed before and between the two World Wars but its true entertainment and not meant to be seen as a factual historical depiction of life at this time. 

I love Maggie Smith’s portrayal of the Dowager Duchess she’s so splendid puts me in the mind of Lady Bracknell from Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Importance of Being Ernest’. I doubt very much though that this is in any way accidental.

Maggie Smith

 

Of course the relationships between Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens) and Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery and the below stairs, between Bates (Brendan Croyle) and Anna (Joanne Froggart) keep everyone on their toes guessing what will happen next. All the little twists and turns are great and the remaining cast and their stories are equally engaging. Whilst on the subject of what’s great about this programme one must also say the costumes and sets are fabulous. I for one and I think my daughter for another are looking forward to the next series.

If you’re interested in the other National Television Award winners they are;

Entertainment Programme - 'Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow'

Drama Performance (Female) - Karen Gillan, 'Doctor Who'

Comedy Panel Show - 'Celebrity Juice'

Newcomer - Jacqueline Jossa, 'EastEnders'

Landmark Award - David Walliams

Talk Show - 'Alan Carr: Chatty Man'

Drama Performance (Male) - Matt Smith, 'Doctor Who'

Entertainment Presenter - Ant & Dec

Serial Drama Performance - Katherine Kelly, 'Coronation Street'

Reality Programme - 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!'

Outstanding Contribution - Gary Barlow

Factual Programme - 'This Morning'

Drama - 'Downton Abbey'

Talent Show - 'The X Factor'

Situation Comedy- 'Outnumbered'

Special Recognition - Jonathan Ross

Serial Drama - 'Coronation Street'