One proud English television tradition we here in the U.S. might look into is the Christmas charity specials produced by both the BBC and ITV, which raise money by creating special parody sketches featuring the networks’ most popular shows.
The stand-out example this year might come direct from the stately manor of Downton Abbey, featuring the complete cast of the original series plus a few unexpected guest stars. No spoilers for the most recent season of “Downton Abbey,” but your viewing may be enhanced by an awareness of other British programming, including the Jeremy Piven-starring “Mr. Selfridge” and the absolutely fabulous comedy “Absolutely Fabulous.”
The sketch also features some young upstart by the name of George Clooney who’s wooing the ladies of Downton but good. (Watch it, George, you’re married now.) The complete 10-minute special is available via Vimeo below, and heck, because it’s almost Christmas, info on the Text Santa charity drive can be found here.
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