‘Downton Abbey’ season 4: Hugh Bonneville gives back to a part of his past

Hugh Bonneville is of course known to most people around the world as Robert on “Downton Abbey,” a curmudgeon of a wealthy man who has no real interest in trying to change or adapt. However, long before he ever joined the critically-acclaimed ITV series, this was a man with a very close attachment to the world of the theater. He has done work in this world ever since his early years, and gave back in hosting the Olivier Awards recently in London, the country’s version of the Tonys.

So with this plethora of information in mind, is it any surprise at all to see Bonneville become a patron for the National Youth Theatre? Hardly, but it is proof that there a big heart underneath all of that considerable talent. In a new statement, here is what Bonneville had to say about making this decision:

“I am delighted to become a patron of the National Youth Theatre. I’d not be doing what I do now were it not for this fantastic organisation: it opened my eyes to what was to become my career.

“It is an environment which, through theatre, celebrates individuality, demands collaboration, dedication and discipline and engenders mutual respect among its members, skills that are invaluable for any future walk of life. I look forward to waving the National Youth Theatre flag with pride.”

Bonneville, like so many other actors at the moment connected to the ITV hit, is hard at work filming scenes for what should be an exciting fourth season premiering a little later in the year (or next year, depending on where you live).

What do you think about Bonneville doing this, and does it make you have even more admiration for the man than you did previously? We want to hear from you below! If you want to hear what newcomer Tom Cullen has to say about working with this cast, just be sure to visit the link here.

Photo: ITV