Downton Abbey bans the disgustingly modern act of hugging
While Downton Abbey has increasingly allowed modernity to seep in through the show’s adopting of contemporary trends, like water bottles and dog murder, there is one vulgar fad it will never embrace—literally. Members of the series’ cast are under strict orders not to touch each other, in keeping with the strict adherence to historical accuracy that extends down to their underwear. This “No Touching” rule—like an emotional version of the prison in Arrested Development—falls in line with the early 20th-century era Downton Abbey depicts, when there was no hugging, and all displays of affection were handled properly through telegram.