‘Downton Abbey’ star is ‘delighted’ to be part of Queen’s New Year Honours list
Jim Carter has been made an OBE as part of the Queen’s New Year Honours list.
The 70-year-old actor is best known for his role as butler Mr Carson in all six seasons of Downton Abbey.
His award is in recognition of his services to drama.
OBE stands for Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
Carter has also appeared in The Madness of King George, Shakespeare in Love, The Golden Compass, Alice in Wonderland, The Witches and Cranford.
The Harrogate-born star commented: “I’m honoured. I’m particularly delighted this honour came in time to share with my mum, Molly, who is 99 and she was thrilled, she lit up at the news, so that was very good.”
He joked: “I mean, I guess it’s mainly recognition due to Downton Abbey. It says ‘for services to drama’ and I’m not sure quite what services I’ve given to drama – longevity probably as I’m approaching about 49 years in the business – so a long service medal!”
Carter added: “I’m sure it’s in recognition of the popularity of Downton and also personally I like to quietly take it as a thank you for what Downton has allowed me to do in terms of work for charity and fundraising.”
He will reprise his role as Mr Carson in the upcoming Downton Abbey movie, which is released in cinemas this September.
Downton Abbey: The Complete Collection DVD box set is available on Amazon.