After fifteen years portraying the iconic Lady Mary Crawley in ITV's beloved period drama Downton Abbey, Michelle Dockery is preparing for her most exciting role yet: motherhood.
A Cosy Lunch Date in London
The actress, who will turn 44 next month, was recently spotted enjoying a relaxed midweek lunch with her husband, television producer Jasper Waller-Bridge. The couple were seen laughing and chatting outside the renowned River Cafe in Hammersmith, west London.
Michelle looked effortlessly stylish and content, showcasing her blossoming baby bump beneath a chic red and black oversized coat and matching red woollen hat. This public appearance offered a charming glimpse into the couple's life as they anticipate the arrival of their first child together.
A Love Story and a Star-Studded Wedding
The pair's romance began in 2019 after being introduced by mutual friends. Jasper, 38, is the brother of the acclaimed Fleabag creator, Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
Their relationship culminated in a September 2023 wedding that was attended by a host of famous faces. Many of Michelle's Downton Abbey family were present to celebrate, including co-stars Lily James, Hugh Bonneville, and Laura Carmichael. Carmichael, who played her on-screen sister Lady Edith, had the honour of being a bridesmaid on the big day.
Embracing a New Chapter
Michelle officially revealed her pregnancy at the London premiere of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale in September. She graced the red carpet in a beautiful dusky blue gown that elegantly highlighted her prominent bump.
While she has not publicly confirmed her due date, this new chapter marks a significant and joyful period for the actress. She was previously engaged to PR director John Dineen, who tragically passed away from a rare form of cancer in 2015.
Fans of her work need not worry about her saying a final farewell to Lady Mary. Michelle has stated, "I don't think I will ever say goodbye to Mary or Downton. Mary will always be part of me, as will Downton Abbey as a whole."
As for her next on-screen project, Michelle is set to star in the biographical drama The Queen Of Fashion. She will be playing Alexandra Shulman, the former British Vogue editor and Mail on Sunday columnist, in the story about fashion stylist Isabella Blow.
