Joanna Lumley is disappointed she was never asked to star in 'Downton Abbey'.

Joanna Lumley

Joanna Lumley

The 69-year-old actress has confessed she "sent letters" to the ITV show's creator, Julian Fellowes, asking for a part in the period drama, which is to come to an end following the upcoming sixth series.

Joanna said: "I have sent letters to Julian Fellowes. I've auditioned by simpering about whenever I'm with them. I've interviewed the cast for a big charity thing. I can't bear to think what's happened to them and now it's all over."

However, while the 'Absolutely Fabulous' star never got to appear in 'Downton', she was able to write and star in a sketch that mocked the popular show at Christmas and also got to kiss Hollywood actor George Clooney in the process.

Speaking to Magic Radio, Joanna said: "Oh, it was fantastic. Really, utterly thrilling. Now there's something to achieve in a day, doing that whole gorgeous bit of filming. And at the end, Mr. Clooney."

The comedian - who also got to kiss Leonardo DiCaprio in 'The Wolf of Wall Street' - went on to speak of how "charming" the 'Gravity' star was when she met him.

Joanna said: "He was so charming. I'm collecting kisses now, from obviously kissing DiCaprio on 'Wolf of Wall Street', now I'm kissing Mr. Clooney.

"I mean all these things, you should sort of put it into your contract. He was just charming and delightful, and everybody fell hook, line and sinker for him."