Upstairs Downstairs has many similarities to Downton. It originally ran from 1971-1975 and was a blockbuster for its time. The story ran from 1903-1930. There was a new series by that name in 2010 where someone went back to the old house. I've seen them all but am just fascinated by Downton Abbey. I watch each episode 2 or 3 times in reruns and just cackle at some of the clever lines. I think I could memorize many scenes, and I have a lousy memory these days. Maggie Smith's character is my favorite, but I love following them all. I think the Upstairs serieses (both of them) are enjoyable in a different way, but worth watching too. Julian Fellows, who writes Downton also wrote Gosford Park which is my hubby's favorite movie. Similar idea, really. It's what I prefer to the "reality" shows that are often so vulgar and vacuous. Ok, stupid. The layers of class, the clothes, the house, the people. Ok, enough from me!