The first episodes I actually read for 'Downton,' Sybil was really intimidated and hadn't come into her own. So it's only in Series Two that she's become so headstrong. In general, I find it exciting to play strong, female roles because they're shocking.

I'm really into strong, female roles - but they don't have to necessarily be loud - I'm just as interested in introverts too.

I do so many things. Like when I was younger, if I drove past a house that I didn't want to live in, I'd hold my breath. Driving around somewhere like Slough I'd go blue in the face.

I just really think every job I do, I get this gypsy attitude to money.

My mom taught me the power of love. I learned to focus on the long-term big picture from my father. His sense of humor and light-hearted approach always make me smile. My husband is a pivotal anchor in my life. His influence encourages me to be independent and take risks.

To me, I feel like everything I touch will do good. Because my heart and my passion is all in the right spot. And you can't go wrong with that. But maybe I'm naive.

An actress who has worked most of her life is suddenly expected to slow down and her work taken away from her completely after marriage.

I got married at twenty-five and had children right away, so I didn't have the worry that I would never get to have children.