TV & Satellite Week – 2nd October, 2014

Richard E Grant is appearing in Downton Abbey (ITV, Sunday) as art historian Simon Bricker, who comes to take a peek at the Crawleys’ works of art.

TV & Satellite Week caught up with him to find out more….

How did you feel when you got the role?
“When my agent called and said I’d been offered a role in Downton, I was thrilled, but because I’d played a footman in Gosford Park, I assumed I might be downstairs again, so I was surprised to be served rather than serving!”

So how would you describe Simon Bricker?
“He’s an immensely well-travelled art historian who is invited to Downton to assess the family’s art collection and he is both charming and erudite.”

Did you feel like the new boy on set?
“The Downton cast have all worked together for four years so it was slightly daunting being a newcomer, but they were incredibly welcoming and hospitable.”

You’ve worked with Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern before haven’t you?
“Yes Hugh is hilarious and great company and Elizabeth and I also played husband and wife in The Scarlet Pimpernel back in the last century so it was a real pleasure to work together again.”

What was it like going to Highclere Castle where the series is filmed?
“It felt slightly surreal to be there because it was simultaneously familiar and strange. It’s so cold though! Highclere’s position, whilst very beautiful, means that it is always chilly, even in summer.”

What is the secret to Downton’s success?
“I have watched every series and it’s just fascinating and riveting to eavesdrop on so many people’s lives and experience the social mores and the do’s and don’t’s of a few generations back, with the advantage of historical hindsight.”

What is next for you?
“I’m currently filming an American series called Dig, from the creators of Homeland. It’s set in contemporary Jerusalem and I play an archaeologist.”