Simon Cowell to have cameo role in new series of Downton Abbey The X Factor creator is set to make his acting debut in Julian Fellowes' period drama, reports Ed Cumming. (THE TELEGRAPH)

Simon Cowell is swapping his trademark high-waisted trousers for white tie and tails, with a small part in the third series of Downton Abbey.

For his first acting role, the X Factor creator and music producer will appear as Baron de Wharffe, an industrialist and old schoolfriend of the Earl of Grantham (Hugh Bonneville). The Baron seeks refuge at Downton after falling on hard times when new laws force him to close down a number of profitable meat factories.

He puts his host in a difficult position, however, when he starts encouraging the servants to leave Downton and fulfil their childhood fantasies.

“The Baron is a bit of a cad,” said a source close to the series. “One of those schoolfriends who you love even though they make mischief. His winning smile gets him out of most scrapes.”


READ MORE:  http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/tvandradio/downton-abbey/9179008/Simon-Cowell-to-have-cameo-role-in-new-series-of-Downton-Abbey.html

SIMON Cowell hasn't been to the cinema for almost five years... and it's all Hugh Grant's fault.

Simon Cowell can’t go to the cinema after Hugh Grant embarrassment

By GORDON SMART, Showbiz Ed

Published: Today at 01:29

 

The X Factor judge has a fear of nights out at the movies because he gets harassed by punters – and now only watches DVDs at home.

The last straw came while watching Hugh play a washed-up Eighties singer in the 2007 romantic comedy Music And Lyrics.

He said: "The last time I went to the cinema publicly was for a movie where Hugh Grant was a failing singer songwriter.

"Some people recognised me and every time his character sang a song in the movie, everyone turned around to look at me.

"I've never been so embarrassed in all my life.

A bridge too far ... Music And Lyrics

"It was terrible, they looked at me as if I was going to say 'That was crap.' I was so embarrassed I had to get out of there.

"That was the last time I went to the movies. Now I just buy DVDs."

Don't feel too sorry for Si. His TV at home is probably the same size as a cinema screen.