THE PHILIPPINES, AUGUST 2011 – From Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes, Downton Abbey is a witty British period drama that has chalked up an impressive 11 Emmy nominations this year. Premiering on September 8, Thursday at 11pm only on DIVA Universal, this seven-episode miniseries is set to spice up the screens with its dramatic storylines.
Apart from being the top drama series on UK television in 2010,Downton Abbey has scored nods beyond home – it was the highest-rated scripted series on PBS in the US and achieved outstanding viewership numbers in Australia, Denmark, and Spain.
Set in the year 1912 in a magnificent Edwardian chateau, Downton Abbey is a story about love, betrayal and power in the aristocrat Crawley family. Apart from the scintillating plot and stunning cinematography, the show also boasts a talented cast, namely Elizabeth McGovern and Maggie Smith, whose stellar performances are up for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries respectively at the Emmys this year.
McGovern plays the role of Countess of Grantham who has to protect her family in a time where politics of inheritance loomed in the home. Perhaps best remembered as Professor McGonagall in Harry Potter, Smith’s famous air of authority lends grandiose to her role as Dowager Countess of Grantham.
Behind the scenes, Downton Abbey’s competent production crew has also secured Emmy nominations for directing, casting, art direction, costumes, and single picture in the miniseries category.
DIVA Universal is seen on Asian Vision Cable Channel 10, Cablelink Channel 37, Dream Satellite Channel 33, Global Destiny Channel 38 and SkyCable Channel 37.
