The Daily Beast: "<I>Upstairs Downstairs</i> Returns to PBS’ <i>Masterpiece</i>"

After 36 years, beloved period drama Upstairs Downstairs returns to American television on Sunday with new characters and the original co-creators checking into 165 Eaton Place.

Over at The Daily Beast, you can read my latest feature, entitled "Upstairs Downstairs Returns to PBS’ Masterpiece," in which I speak to Upstairs Downstairs' Dame Eileen Atkins, Jean Marsh, Keeley Hawes, and Ed Stoppard about the new series, set in 1936 and launching on Sunday evening. Among the topics under discussion: how the period drama relates to today's viewing audience, the character of Lady Maud (complete with monkey Solomon) played by Dame Eileen Atkins, the rivalry with ITV's Downton Abbey, and the broad-sweeping political and social themes of the three-episode season.

Upstairs Downstairs launches Sunday evening at 9 pm ET/PT on PBS' Masterpiece. Check your local listings for details.