First look at ‘Downton Abbey’s Mrs Patmore in new period drama ‘Beecham House’

We’ve got a sneak preview here of Downton Abbey star Lesley Nicol in ITV’s latest period drama.

Due to begin airing in the UK this spring, Beecham House is set on the cusp of the 19th century in India.

Created by the writer and director of Bend It Like Beckham, the upcoming six-part series is based in Delhi, before the British ruled the region, and follows the residents of Beecham House, an imposing mansion surrounded by acres of exotic woods and pristine lawns.

Best known as cook Mrs Patmore in Downton Abbey, Lesley Nicol will play the show’s matriarch, Henrietta.

The mother of lead character John Beecham, played by Vanity Fair actor Tom Bateman, Henrietta is described as “robust” and “interfering.”

The cast also includes Dakota Blue Richards (Endeavour), Gregory Fitoussi (Mr Selfridge), Bessie Carter (Les Miserables), Pallavi Sharda (Lion), Adil Ray (Citizen Khan), Marc Warren (Hustle) and Leo Suter (Victoria).

ITV’s Head of Drama, Polly Hill previously commented: “Tom Bateman is perfect casting as John Beecham and we’re thrilled Lesley Nicol, Adil Ray, Pallavi Sharda, Marc Warren and Gregory Fitoussi have agreed to play such key roles.”

Here’s a first look at Lesley Nicol as Henrietta:

The 65-year-old Manchester-born actress will reprise her role as Mrs Patmore in the Downton Abbey movie, in cinemas this autumn.

Beecham House is expected to air in the USA later this year on Masterpiece on PBS.

Downton Abbey: The Complete Collection DVD box set is available on Amazon.