Celebrity

15 Downton Abbey Secrets Revealed

Published

3 months ago

September 28, 2024

What better way to honor Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away on September 27th at the age of 89, than by revealing little-known facts about the world of Downton Abbey’s Crawley family and their servants.

Six seasons and one movie.

That’s what Downton Abbey fans were in for when the period drama premiered in the U.S. on PBS on January 9, 2011. Yes, it’s actually been more than 13 years since we first met the Crawley family and their servants in their great mansion in the English countryside. Then again, who could forget how Theo James’ character died deflowering Michelle Dockery’s Lady Mary during the first season?

The Julian Fellowes-created series became a pop culture phenomenon that catapulted Dockery, Dan Stevens, and other cast members to megastardom and introduced one of the most popular characters on TV, Maggie Smith’s Countess (also known as the woman who became famous for her clever twists). And then… the insult was born to become a meme. (Of course, this is just one of the many incredible characters Dame Maggie Smith played before her death on September 27th at the age of 89.)

The original run ended in 2015, but audiences returned to Downton Abbey when the first film hit theaters in September 2019, followed by Downton Abbey: A New Era in May 2022. Smith won three Emmy Awards during the series’ six seasons and reprised the role in the 2019 and 2022 film adaptations.

But in 2013, when asked if she was interested in her celebrity status, Smith told CBS News, “I’m not interested at all.” I mean, why should I be?

“I don’t feel any different than I did before, and I have no idea what it means,” she continued, but noted that people have started to recognize her on the street since Downton Abbey. “I didn’t before, and now people are familiar with me. It’s all because of TV.”

In honor of Smith and her incredible work, we reveal some behind-the-scenes facts about the series, including the real reason behind the show’s most shocking death and which star nearly canceled her audition. We’re not Laura Linney. 15 secrets about Downton Abbey revealed…

1. The idea for the period drama was loosely born out of creator Julian Fellowes’ own childhood with his diplomat father. “My mother wasn’t featured. She wasn’t [debutant],” he explained to Closer about his own family drama. “My great-aunts thought they ‘got it’ [my father], but they never changed.” They eventually tolerated her, as she gave birth to four healthy sons and fulfilled her dynastic obligations.”

2. Oh, did we mention that Fellowes is actually a baron and a member of the House of Lords?

3. Casting director Jill Treverick admitted backstage that “we had pretty much a first-time candidate for every role,” and that Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, and Dan Stevens were her “favorites” for their respective roles.

4. The hardest role to cast was valet John Bates. After over 60 actors were considered, Brendan Coyle got the job, but only because the studio wasn’t convinced that Coyle was the right man for a very specific reason.

“We had Brendan in mind from very early on,” Trevelick explained. “I would even say that Julian wrote the role with Brendan in mind, because he had seen Brendan in North and South and felt that Brendan was the perfect actor for the role. We saw Brendan very early on, but then there were some concerns from the network. Not because they didn’t like Brendan, but because he was in a period genre piece, they were worried that it might be a bit too harsh, and they were worried that maybe he would be on a TV show at the same time, on a different channel… I think in the end we just ran out of them.”

After six weeks, they were able to offer the role to Coyle.

5. The first OMG moment for Downton came when Matthew Crawley, the show’s spunky male lead, was killed off in the season 3 finale. “There were a lot of people who were very upset and wanted an apology,” Stevens told Entertainment Weekly about his decision to leave the series at the end of his three-year contract.

When asked why he was ready to say goodbye to Downton, he explained: “But now I’m looking at how I can challenge myself and entertain myself.”

6. In an interview with E! News, Fellowes stressed that Stevens’ decision to leave the series (and not return to star in the fourth season) led to the character’s sudden death. “To them it looked like the production team had just decided,” he continued, in a throat-slitting motion, noting that contracts tend to be longer in the US, “but in reality his three-year contract had just finished and he wanted to move on and do other things… We had to make it work. Some of the letters I received made my hair stand on end!”

7. Matthew’s devastating death didn’t put viewers off, however, as the season 4 premiere broke all ratings records, drawing in 10.2 million viewers.

8. If Stevens had told Fellowes he was leaving the series sooner, he would have staged fan-favourite Lady Sybil’s departure differently: “I probably would have killed them both in a car crash.”

9. Highclere Castle is a filming location for Downton Abbey, and the 17th-century castle has become one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations. The countryside oasis is also available to rent through Airbnb, and two fans spent a night in the 9,300-square-foot castle ahead of the series’ film premiere in September 2019.

10. But these tenants could have been dealing with ghosts, as the show’s historical consultant explained the widespread paranormal rumors in an interview with Travel + Leisure.
“I remember my cousin [Jean Margaret Herbert, Countess of Carnarvon] going white in the face when I told her what the opening sequence of the show would be,” Alastair Bruce explained. “Daisy gets up and runs the whole house and cleans it up before the Earl of Grantham comes downstairs. Mrs. As Hughes walks around, the camera focuses on the chain around her waist with all the keys hanging from it. And Jean (she’s the Countess of Caernarvon) goes blank because the house is haunted by the ghost of a former housekeeper. She’s there because she can hear the keys jingling on the end of the chain. ”

11. Though Lady Edith Crawley became her breakout role, Laura Carmichael almost didn’t show up to audition for the series.

Carmichael had starred in a touring production of Shakespeare’s What You Want, so she admitted to Tribune News Service, “I thought it would be a half-day shoot, maybe one line of ‘Yes, my lord.'” It’s good to have worked in television on your resume, though. And I thought, “I’m going to have to turn down this dream Shakespeare for this TV job.” What a disaster!’

12. In 2012, Gillian Anderson announced she had turned down the role of Cora Crawley, and Elizabeth McGovern was set to transition from Downton’s American heiress to the Countess of Grantham.

13. According to Vanity Fair, Queen Elizabeth II is a huge fan of the series and has fact-checked it for fun. “She loves to find fault,” Brian Hoey, author of At Home with the Queen, claimed to People magazine. Prince William also admitted to watching the series, according to star Alan Leech.

“I shook his hand and he actually said, ‘I’m a huge fan of the show, but now my wife has a baby,'” Leech recalled on Watch What Happens Live in 2013. “Obviously, he had a lot of free time, so [Kate Middleton] got him to check it out. ‘Watch it with me!'”

14. Smith, who played Countess Violet Crawley, admitted to never having seen the series. “Maybe I’ll watch it when it’s all finished because I’ll be frustrated,” she told The Telegraph about why she won’t be watching her own work. “I always look at things I wish I’d done differently and think, ‘Why in God’s name did I do that?'”

15. Because it was a period piece, the female stars often had to wear corsets underneath their costumes, which caused “huge problems,” according to lead costume designer Susanna Buxton.

“It was a nightmare for the poor souls,” she told the Mirror. “They felt very, very uncomfortable.” You have to learn to wear it, and of course the girls are not used to it. It was so narrow that the actors could not even eat there.

Celebrity

Nadech Kugimiya: Superstar with a Humble Heart

Published

2 weeks ago

December 7, 2024

Wadi

Nadech Kugimiya

Nadech Kugimiya, also known by his nickname Barry, is one of Thailand’s most beloved actors, celebrated for both his impressive performances and his down-to-earth personality. Born on December 17, 1991, in Khon Kaen, Thailand, he has captured the hearts of fans through his dedication to his craft and his humble lifestyle. His latest film, Death Whisperer 2, has become one of the top-performing films in Thailand for 2024, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the Thai entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Background and Upbringing

Nadech was adopted by Yoshio and Sudarat Kugimiya. He completed his high school education at Khon Kaen International School before pursuing a bachelor’s degree in film and cinematography from Rangsit University. He later earned a master’s degree, showcasing his commitment to both education and his acting career.Career Beginnings:

Nadech began his career in modeling at the age of 17, landing his first television commercial for chewing gum.
He made his acting debut in the romance series Ngao Rak Luang Jai, where he played one of two wealthy cousins vying for love.

Rise to Fame

Breakthrough Roles and Recognition

Nadech gained widespread recognition for his role in Duang Jai Akkanee (2010), where he starred alongside Urassaya Sperbund (Yaya). Their on-screen chemistry won them both Best Rising Actress/Actor awards, leading to further collaborations in projects such as Game Rai Game Rak (2011).Significant Achievements:

In 2013, he starred in Sunset at Chaophraya, earning the Best Actor award for his compelling performance.
His versatility as an actor has allowed him to take on diverse roles across various genres.

Box Office Success

Major Hits and Acclaimed Performances

In 2017, Nadech starred opposite Urassaya Sperbund in the romantic comedy Leh Lub Salab Rang. The following year, he portrayed a Royal Thai Navy officer in Likhit Ruk The Crown Princess. His film Nakee 2 (2018) became a box office sensation, grossing 441.2 million baht and becoming the highest-grossing Thai film of that year.Latest Success:

His recent film, Death Whisperer 2, released on October 10, 2024, has set new records as the highest-grossing Thai film of the year, surpassing previous box office hits.

Humble Nature and Public Persona

Interacting with Fans

Despite his fame and success, Nadech remains approachable and humble. He is often seen engaging with fans in public spaces, using public transport, jogging in parks, cycling, and even doing laundry on the BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System). This down-to-earth attitude has led to the popular hashtag ณเดชน์อยู่ทุกที่ (Nadech is everywhere) among fans.Community Engagement:

Nadech’s interactions with fans reflect his genuine appreciation for their support and have endeared him even more to the public.

A Superstar with a Heart

Nadech Kugimiya’s journey from a young model to one of Thailand’s most sought-after actors is a testament to his talent and dedication. His ability to connect with fans while maintaining a humble demeanor sets him apart in the entertainment industry. As he continues to take on new roles and challenges, Nadech remains a beloved figure whose heartwarming personality resonates with audiences across Thailand and beyond.

Celebrity

Thai Star Chutimon “Aokbab” Chuengcharoensukying Shines with Historic Emmy Win

Published

4 weeks ago

November 26, 2024

Ashley Wings

Thai actress Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying, widely known as Aokbab, has made history by becoming the first Thai performer to win the Best Performance by an Actress award at the 52nd International Emmy Awards in New York City. Her award-winning portrayal in Netflix Thailand’s hit movie, Hunger, has catapulted her to international stardom, marking a groundbreaking moment for Thailand’s entertainment industry.

Aokbab’s Historic Win at the Emmys

A First for Thailand

Aokbab’s victory is a monumental achievement, not just for her career but for the Thai film industry as a whole. Competing against acclaimed actresses like Andriana Barraza (El Ultimo Vagon), Sara Giraudeau (Everything is Fine), and Jessica Hynes (There She Goes), Aokbab’s performance stood out for its depth and intensity.

In an emotional Instagram post following her nomination, the 28-year-old actress shared her disbelief, writing, “Being nominated for the award is like a dream to me.”

Role in Netflix’s Hunger

Aokbab earned the Emmy for her role as Aoy, a street food chef from humble beginnings who ventures into the high-stakes world of fine dining under the ruthless mentorship of a demanding chef. Her performance in Hunger, produced by Sound Sound Production, resonated with audiences worldwide.

Released in April 2022, Hunger quickly gained global acclaim, climbing into Netflix’s Top 10 most-watched international films and showcasing the vibrancy of Thai cinema on an international stage.

Aokbab’s Rise to Stardom

From Bad Genius to Global Fame

Aokbab’s breakout role came in 2017’s critically acclaimed Bad Genius, which earned her widespread recognition for her acting prowess. Since then, she has expanded her repertoire as both an actress and a model, becoming one of Thailand’s most celebrated talents.

Her Emmy win solidifies her position as a rising star, with the potential to further bridge Thai cinema with global audiences.

A Victory for Thai Cinema

Aokbab’s achievement is not just a personal triumph—it’s a testament to the growing influence of Thai cinema on the international stage. Her win highlights the talent and creativity emerging from Thailand and brings fresh attention to the country’s burgeoning film industry.

The Impact of Aokbab’s Emmy Win

Renewed Interest in Thai Film

Aokbab’s Emmy success is expected to spark international interest in Thai productions, encouraging more collaborations between Thailand and global streaming platforms like Netflix.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Her win serves as an inspiration to aspiring Thai actors and filmmakers, proving that talent and dedication can break barriers and reach audiences worldwide.

Aokbab’s historic Emmy win is a celebration of her talent, hard work, and the rich storytelling tradition of Thai cinema. With her compelling performance in Hunger and her newfound global recognition, she has opened doors for more Thai talents to shine on the world stage.

Ref – Thaiger

Celebrity

Sisaket Beauty Sparks Social Media Frenzy with Search for Mr. Right

Published

2 months ago

October 21, 2024

Ashley Wings

In a bold and structured quest for love, Sayamon Unkam, a Sisaket native affectionately known as Alice, has taken the internet by storm. Her viral Facebook Live session, where she laid down eight specific, non-negotiable criteria for her ideal partner, has captivated netizens. While the social media buzz intensifies, Alice remains firm in her search for someone who meets her well-defined standards, learned through the hard lessons of heartbreak.

Alice’s Strict Criteria for Finding Mr. Right

1. Family Compatibility and Shared Lifestyles

For Alice, love is not just about two individuals, but about families that align. She places a strong emphasis on family dynamics and shared values in everyday living.

2. Passion for Reading and Introverted Charm

Alice seeks a partner who enjoys the quiet pleasure of reading and embraces a more introverted lifestyle, valuing introspection and calmness over constant excitement.

3. Simple Living and Fiscal Responsibility

Simplicity and financial wisdom are key. Alice isn’t looking for lavish spenders but someone who lives modestly and makes responsible financial choices.

4. Romantic and Emotionally Mature

She desires a partner who is romantic but balanced with emotional maturity—someone who remains calm, gentle, clean, and grounded even in challenging situations.

5. Age Range and Flexibility

Alice’s ideal match falls between the ages of 35 and 50, but she remains flexible. “Meeting four or six key criteria is fine,” she reassured her audience, signaling that a perfect match may not tick every box.

6. Divorcees Welcome, but Only if Legally Single

For men who have been through divorce, Alice is open to connecting—so long as they are legally unattached, ensuring no unresolved relationships linger in the background.

A Focus on Substance Over Materialism

No Salary Demands, Only Genuine Connection

Unlike many who might prioritize material wealth, Alice isn’t focused on her suitor’s income. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of a connection that nurtures both her and her family. For Alice, the relationship must go deeper than simply providing luxury or financial gain.

Keeping Standards High with Age

As Alice matures, so do her expectations. Rather than lowering her standards as she grows older, she believes in sharpening them. She encourages others to avoid settling for fleeting romances and to pursue long-lasting partnerships built on shared values and mutual respect.

Alice’s Take on Love and Relationships

Shared Values Over Fleeting Romance

Alice is clear: love may fade, but shared values can sustain a relationship through life’s ups and downs. She emphasizes that a lasting connection depends on deeper qualities that withstand the test of time.

Realizing Happiness Without Settling

According to Alice, real happiness doesn’t come from simply being in a relationship. It’s crucial to design your own joy and maintain high standards. She advises against the illusion that a partner will fix everything, reinforcing the idea that true fulfillment comes from within.

Are You the One? Alice’s Search Continues

Eligible men are invited to step forward, but only those who are ready to prove they meet Alice’s thoughtful and sincere standards. Her Facebook page remains open for contenders, sparking curiosity and excitement among her followers. Alice’s search for a genuine connection, built on mutual respect and understanding, is ongoing—but only for those who can make the grade.