Returning: Upstairs, Downstairs
The 3-part sequel to the ever-popular UK Drama Upstairs, Downstairs comes to ABC1.
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The sequel to the ever-popular UK Drama Upstairs, Downstairs premieres on ABC1 this Sunday night.
The new three-part series is set in 1936 and stars Ed Stoppard, Keeley Hawes and actor / writers Jean Marsh and Dame Eileen Atkins who co-created the original series.
Marsh again plays Rose while Atkins, who was unable to appear in the original due to stage commitments, was cast as Lady Maud Holland. But Atkins has decided not to take part in future episodes, because she is reportedly unhappy with the direction the scripts are taking.
In the summer of 1930, the Bellamy family left its home in London’s Belgravia forever. In the empty house, loyal parlourmaid Rose Buck (Jean Marsh) reflected on its ghosts, its history, the loves and lives it had contained. Closing the door for the final time, she walked away – and left a piece of her heart behind her.
In 1936, a twist of fate brings Rose back to 165 Eaton Place, as housekeeper to its new owners: Sir Hallam (Ed Stoppard), his wife Lady Agnes (Keeley Hawes), and his mother Maud, Lady Holland (Dame Eileen Atkins).
But in the years leading up to the Second World War, times are changing and servants are no longer cheap and obedient; Rose soon finds she has her work cut out as she recruits a ‘downstairs’ family to help run the elegance and finery of the ‘upstairs’ world.
Meanwhile, in the wider world, Edward VIII has ascended the throne, fascism is on the rise, and Europe is inching towards catastrophe.
Set against the historical backdrop of a Britain with a new King, with sexual, social and political tensions, this new series provides an evolving take on the master-servant relationship.
With lavish visuals, gripping storylines and a stellar cast, the stage is set for a sublime viewing experience.
8:30pm Sunday on ABC1.
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9 Responses
I just watched the new “Upstairs Downstairs” for the second time. It was a lot better than I had originally believed. Mind you, I still found the ending ridiculously sentimental. But I also believe it was damn good. And I see no need to compare it to “Downton Abbey”, or choose between the two series. One can watch and enjoy both.
As for the accusations of “poor continuity”, I don’t get it. The new series is not about the continuation of the Bellamy family. It’s about a new family that now occupies 165 Eaton Place, the Hollands.
It’s no Downton for sure – and the woman who wrote a part for herself really lets the show down – awful actress.
Oldies, but goodies…I notice 7-two has scheduled Route 66 and Naked City together on Sunday mornings…
@ D@GP 7TWO did play the original series for a while early when 7TWO first started out but It’s just disappeared from the line up.
Anyone know if the rights to the original series are available for either platform – free or pay?
Watched this on uktv, it ain’t a patch on Downton, but still worth a look
Finally something to fill void till Downton Abbey comes back.
enjoyed seeing this on foxtel, quite gentle compared to downton abbey, but some enjoyable stories..however this should never have been called upstairs downstairs due to the poor continuity
This has already screened here on UKTV. Its pretty good fun…