Michelle Dockery, 40, known primarily as Downton Abbey’s Lady Mary, is much less glacial than the characters she portrays.
Friendly and easy to be around, we chat about her career, the rumours about her taking on the iconic role of James Bond, and growing older with confidence.
We saw you in The Gentlemen recently where you used a cockney accent. What was that like?
It was refreshing because that accent actually is closer to the accent I heard growing up and it’s the first time that I’ve ever played a role with that accent which is closer to where I’m from.
It was a great departure from what I usually do and it’s funny because doing that Lady Mary voice, people are always quite surprised when they hear my real accent. Actually, they are shocked the minute I open my mouth (laughs).
You’ve had quite a ride in the last ten years. How do you think you’ve changed?
I think you grow in confidence with age and I certainly feel that now in my thirties, it’s easier for me to say no and have confidence in that.
I read that you might be up for the James Bond role. Not too shabby! Would you take it if you were offered?
I think the discussion goes on and on (pauses). People like change and maybe it is time for that with Bond but I don’t know. I don’t know how I would feel about that (laughs). That’s all I’m saying. I am not saying any more about Bond! (laughs)
What do you know now that you didn’t know ten years ago?
Not to stress about the things that are really unimportant. I think maybe looking back I would fixate on things that really didn’t matter. It changes.
As time goes on, your priorities change. Something that my parents always taught me was to see the funny side of everything and I find that happening more and more as I get older. I found a way of laughing things off much more than I used to.
Where do you live these days and how often do you get back to England, and what do you miss about it?
I am based in London but I do enjoy working in Boston. I really love the people and it’s a really good place to be.
How would you describe this time in your life?
It’s a very good time in my life. I’m really enjoying the roles that I’m playing. I feel very fulfilled and things are great. It’s a really lovely place to be at the moment.
