Downton Abbeyactress Kate Phillips is really good in a corset.
Luckily, Phillips has gotten used to acting in restricting costumes.
How did that come about?
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KATE PHILLIPS:Wolf Hallwas my first-ever audition.
It’s amazing to think how naive we were to the whole industry when we were at drama school.
My journey into this industry would be very different had I not had that job.
Robert Viglasky/© Caryn Mandabach Productions Ltd. 2019
Was it daunting walking on to that set with such established actors like Claire Foy and Damain Lewis?
It was totally daunting.
It was a huge ensemble cast.
I was really excited and overwhelmed… Everyone was really encouraging of each other.
You joinedPeaky Blindersin 2016 in its third seasonwas that a similar feeling coming onto an established show?
You kind of have to jump straight in and assume that whole world that’s gone before.
It was kind of a crazy, surreal experience.
But it was lovely and both actors were just so generous and kind, very open.
Can you tease anything about what’s to come for Linda on season 5?
Not everyone’s that fond of Linda.
I wonder how they’ll receive her journey this season.
She’s on a bit of a different paththat’s all I can really say.
Okay, let’s talk aboutDownton Abbey.Were you a fan of the TV show before you were cast?
I watched it at home with my family and then when I was away at university with friends.
I kind of enjoyed it through my growing-up ages and at different stages of my life.
What did you love about your character Princess Mary?
And was there a sense of responsibility there since you’re playing a real person?
I felt really drawn towards Mary.
I felt really connected to her from the offset.
She’s a very kind, but quite detached figure.
She’s quite shy.
I was really struck by how the physical aspects of Mary really affected how I approached her.
I suddenly discovered this cool and rehearsed exterior with this world of quiet suffering underneath it all.
It was amazing to start from the outside and work in.
The scene withAllen Leechon the bench was a nice window into her character.
How was that to shoot?
I think that was the first scene that I shot.
Okay, we have to talk about Dame Maggie Smith.
Was it everything and more?
She is just such a hero.
It was amazing to watch her work.
She just exudes charisma and she’s just effortless with her work.
Just watching her do her thing was amazing.
It’s just so heartwarming.
I think it really hits the spot.
What do you have coming up next?
It’s one of the most exciting projects.
It’s got so much charm and humor and we’ve just had the most fun time.
It’s been really full-on but it’s been amazing.
