Filming of the final season of Downton Abbey has been plagued by unpleasant odours, as the cast sweat in their period costumes and lavish food scenes go on for hours in the heat. Co-creator Gareth Neame admitted that the set can become particularly smelly during the summer months.
Speaking at a Q&A in Los Angeles, Neame revealed that dining room scenes often take over 12 hours, causing food to spoil. 'They bring a fresh salmon in at seven thirty in the morning and they are still on the scene at 6 o'clock in the evening,' he said. 'It doesn't smell good in there.'
Cast members wearing corsets and heavy costumes are also to blame. Hugh Bonneville, who plays Lord Grantham, confirmed that 'the smell was bad' and noted that producers have replaced real fish dishes with fake versions to combat the stench. 'But they are now being quite savvy and when we are having fish it's actually something else - cream cheese bouillabaisse made to look like fish,' he added.
Historical advisor Alistair Bruce ensures that actors wear full period attire, even in hot weather. Laura Carmichael, who plays Lady Edith, said, 'Alistair comes around and tells us off' if they attempt to loosen items to keep cool.
The cast and crew are currently filming the final episodes at Ealing Studios and Highclere Castle, with two and a half months of production left. The show, which has become a global phenomenon, is set to conclude its run on ITV.
