'Downton Abbey' is "one of" Britain's Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's "favourite programmes".

Prince William and Duchess Catherine

Prince William and Duchess Catherine

Prince William has paid tribute to the period drama ahead of its final ever episode on Christmas day after Julie Walters presented the cast and crew with an honourary BAFTA during a special ceremony at London's Richmond Theatre.

The 33-year-old royal began by stating that 'Downton' is "one of Catherine's and my favourite programmes".

He added: "When I first heard that 'Downton Abbey' was to receive the BAFTA special award, I was absolutely thrilled. As the president of BAFTA, I'm delighted that we are paying tribute to this extraordinary series that has flown the flag for British drama both at home and internationally."

The Duke and Duchess - who have son Prince George and daughter Princess Charlotte together - are not the only royal fans of the show however.

Lesley Nicol - who plays cook Mrs. Pattmore - claimed William's stepmother, the Duchess of Cornwall is also an avid viewer.

She told the Daily Express newspaper: "Camilla loves 'Downton Abbey'. We have spoken and she genuinely loves the show."

However, Camilla's husband Prince Charles - who is William's father - is not too keen on the show.

Lesley added: "When I was talking to Prince Charles he had a slightly glazed look, although being very nice.

"Then somebody said, 'Sir, do you know Downton Abbey?' and he replied, 'Oh, I sort of come and go, really.' So I thought, 'I'm on a loser now,' but I think a lot of the royals do watch it."

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