The Inspiration Behind 'Downton Abbey' Melissa Nelson: Too Hot to Work Part 1: Dr. James Knight fired Nelson because he felt his attraction to her threatened his marriage. Charity Angels The L.A. company hires "hot" women to get wealthy men to donate more at charity events. The Down to Earth Duke and Duchess Act 2: Rather than be catered by staff, this Duke and Duchess put themselves and their home to work. Looking for Lady Right at Age 67 Act 3: On the quest to have an heir to inherit his estate, Sir Benjamin Slade wants to settle down. Love at Highclere Castle Act 4: While the affairs on "Downton Abbey" are fiction, Highclere Castle has a real-life Anna and Bates