How The Royal Family Inspired And Got Inspired By ‘Downton Abbey’

The royal family’s life is so interesting and intriguing that it has influenced countless books, shows and movies. The upcoming film installment of the hit British drama “Downton Abbey” is no exception as it took cues from some real-life events of the royals and, conversely, got inspired by praises from some family members themselves.

King George V And Queen Mary’s Visit Is Real

The movie is set in 1927 and revolves around the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle in real life). Show creator Julian Fellowes admitted in an interview for Vanity Fair that he was fascinated by the king and queen’s royal visit to Wentworth Woodhouse at Yorkshire in 1912. The acclaimed scribe meshed this with an account of Queen Mary’s time at Highclere Castle five years later.

“Downton is also in Yorkshire, so it seemed to me quite a good parallel,” Fellowes shared. “This seemed to be an event where the servants would be just as excited as the family — that would affect all the characters,” he added.

Prince William, Kate Middleton And Queen Elizabeth Are Huge Fans Of The Series

Before the finale episode of the show aired, the Duke of Cambridge took part in a short clip where celebrity fans gave their messages of love and dedication to the smash drama.

“I’m delighted that we are paying tribute to this extraordinary series that has flown the flag for British drama both at home and internationally,” William said, after expressing that the fictional abbey is “one of Catherine’s and my favorite programs.”

Brian Hoey, in his book “At Home With The Queen,” revealed that the Queen is a solid fan of the show and loves “pointing out things” that the show got wrong, especially since she’s familiar with Highclere Castle.

The Film’s Historical Advisor Is Prince Edward’s Equerry

An equerry is an officer of the British royal household who attends to the needs of the royal family. Prince Edwards’s equerry, Alastair Bruce, served for six seasons, ensuring that everything on set is accurate (somehow) and apt for the period it was set in.