Salma Hayek On ‘Downton Abbey’: Latina Actress Would Kill For Role But Says A Mexican Would Have To Play Deaf And Dumb

Salma Hayek is an Oscar-nominated actress for her on-screen portrayel of Frida Kahlo in the movie "Frida." The 47-year-old Mexican actress and her husband Francois-Henri Pinault are headed to London and she has already envisioned herself in the hit English drama, "Downton Abbey." In an interview with Virgin Media she stated, "The English are so spirited but so repressed. It's so bizarre. But I love 'Downton Abbey'. I would kill for a role." However, Salma admits that she would feel out of place in the period series and added, "What's a Mexican going to do in 'Downton Abbey'? I would have to play deaf and dumb."

Hayek and her family have found the home where they will be living in soon, but the actress says she might struggle with the weather. "François thinks London is very cosmopolitan. I think it will be good for my career too," she said. "Finding the house has been so stressful. I'm a bit nervous about the weather. I'm going to install light bulbs at home so I can have sunshine all the time." Rumor has it that the relocation is due to avoide taxes, which Salma has denied. “I want to clarify, it's not for tax purposes. We are still paying taxes here in France," she told The Times Magazine. "We think that London has a lot more to offer than just a better tax situation."

"Downton Abbey" is gearing up for its fifth season and made additions to its cast. Richard E. Grant will join the cast as Simon Bricker as a guest of the Grantham's. You might remember Grant as the Spice Girls tour manager in the "Spice World" movie and he recently guest starred on HBO's "Girls" with Lena Dunham. Carnival Films and Masterpiece also announced that Anna Chancellor will portray Lady Anstruther in a guest-starring role, while Rade Sherbedgia will play a Russian refugee. Confirmed to reprise their roles are Dame Harriet Walterand Peter Egean as Lady Shackleton and Lord Flintshire. “We are delighted to welcome these talented actors to the world of "Downton." The characters they play are set to bring yet more excitement and intrigue to the show," said Gareth Neame, executive producer, in a statement. Season 5 started filming on February 10 and will air in England in the fall, while the U.S. will most likely have to wait until January to see its premiere.