Julian Fellow (born 17 August 1949) is a British actor, novelist, screenwriter, and producer. He is most prominently known for creating, writing, and executive producing the television drama series Downton Abbey (2010–2015), for which he received multiple awards including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for the 2010 film The Boxer and an Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series.
Early life and education
Julian Fellow was born in Hammersmith, London, to Sir James Fellow, a civil servant, and Joan (née Barrow). He attended St. Paul's School in London and later studied at the University of Cambridge where he earned a degree in English literature.
Acting career
Fellow began his professional career as an actor, performing in theatre productions and on television. Notable early roles include appearances in stage adaptations of classical works and guest spots in British television dramas such as The Gentle Touch and The House of Eliott.
Screenwriting and production
Transitioning to writing in the 1990s, Fellow gained recognition for his historical dramas. He wrote the screenplay for the 1999 feature film Gosford Park, directed by Robert Altman, which won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Following this success, he developed Downton Abbey, a period drama set in early 20th‑century England, which aired on ITV and achieved international acclaim. The series produced six seasons, several spin‑off films, and earned numerous awards for its writing, production design, and acting ensembles.
Literary work
In addition to screenwriting, Fellow is the author of several novels, including Snobbery Please! (2000) and The Allegory of Man (2006). His literary style frequently explores themes of class, society, and British cultural norms.
Honours and recognition
- Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay – Gosford Park (2001)
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series – Downton Abbey (2012)
- Knighted in the 2016 New Year Honours for services to drama and the arts (styled Sir Julian Fellow).
Personal life
Julian Fellow is married to actress Emma Joynt. The couple has three children. He is known for his interest in British heritage preservation and frequently participates in charitable events supporting the arts.
Selected filmography
- The Boxer (1997) – Screenwriter
- Gosford Park (2001) – Screenwriter, Producer
- Downton Abbey (TV series, 2010–2015) – Creator, Writer, Executive Producer
- Downton Abbey (film, 2019) – Writer, Producer
- The Red Baron (2023) – Writer, Producer
Julian Fellow continues to be active in television and film production, focusing on period pieces that examine British social history.