Upstairs: the wealthy, aristocratic Bellamys. Downstairs: their loyal and lively servants. For nearly 30 years, they share a fashionable townhouse at 165 Eaton Place in London’s posh Belgravia neighborhood, surviving social change, political upheaval, scandals, and the horrors of the First World War. The most popular and successful British drama series in television history, Upstairs, Downstairs won seven Emmy® Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Peabody. This epic saga of life and love in Edwardian England captivated viewers for five heart-tugging, humorous, and satisfying seasons. Seen by a billion people in over 40 countries, it’s beloved around the world.
Upstairs, Downstairs is a British television drama series originally produced by London Weekend Television. It ran on ITV in 68 episodes divided into five series from 1971 to 1975. Spans the Edwardian, First World War, and Interwar eras.
Set in a large townhouse in Edwardian, First World War and interwar Belgravia in London, the series depicts the lives of the servants “downstairs” and their masters—the family “upstairs”. Great events feature prominently in the episodes but minor or gradual changes are also noted. The series stands as a document of the social and technological changes that occurred between 1903 and 1930.
“One of the brightest gems ever to come over the ocean from the British” –The Washington Post
Shown on PBS Masterpiece Theatre.
Starring Jean Marsh, Pauline Collins, David Langton, Gordon Jackson, Simon Williams, Lesley-Anne Down.
Not rated.