Julian Fellowes retires from House of Lords at 76 after health struggles

Julian Fellowes, the creator of Downton Abbey, has announced his retirement from the House of Lords at the age of 76. The peer, who was appointed in 2011, has chosen not to discuss his reasons for stepping down.

He has lived with spinal stenosis for decades, a condition that now restricts his mobility to a wheelchair.

Fellowes entered the House of Lords in 2011 under David Cameron's Coalition government. He took the title Lord Fellowes of West Stafford, named after the Dorset village where he resides.

His health struggles began earlier in life. In his 30s, he underwent surgery for spinal stenosis, but the condition returned in his 70s. Despite now relying on a wheelchair, he has described himself as fortunate.

Married to Emma Kitchener, a former lady in waiting to Princess Michael of Kent, Fellowes has one adult son, Peregrine. Throughout his career, he has balanced political duties with his work in television and film.

The retirement marks the end of Fellowes' 13-year tenure in the Lords. His departure comes as he continues managing the effects of spinal stenosis. No further details about his decision have been shared.