I think the success of 'Downton' is partly because there are effectively 18 leading characters, all given equal importance, so it's enormously involving on many levels. But also, it's a new story. It's not like Dickens or Austen, where everyone knows the denouement.

I think the first time I realised Downton Abbey was a hit was when I was sitting in a tea shop in New York and the couple next to me were talking about Downton Abbey, and then they recognised me.

If Shakespeare was around today I would ask him out to dinner. The only thing I don't like about him is the way he did his hair.

I get so excited about reading a new script.

I don't mind wearing a corset; it informs your posture, changes the way you move, you can't slouch.

For years, I was often afraid to speak up when I didn't fully understand a script. I'd tie myself in knots.

Shakespeare and his work will always be relevant. He wrote those pieces hundreds of years ago and we haven't really changed as humans, have we? We have to deal with love, honour and adultery now - people were the same then, too - that's what's so wonderful and powerful.