It's a Dog's Life for New Abbey Star; Shirley MacLaine Joins the Period Drama as Martha Levinson, the Mother of Lady Cora Grantham

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Byline: RICK FULTON

Oscar winner Shirley MacLaine would only take a bigger part in Downton Abbey if her dog could come too.

The 13-year-old spotted rat terrier called Terry is the love of her life and being away for just three weeks while filming her part for the third series of the STV period drama, which starts tomorrow, was a wrench.

The actress, who lives with Terry in New Mexico, said: "Can you believe this is a governing factor in my life? Of course I'd come back, but only if I can bring my dog.

"I don't like leaving my dog when I go to England and she is with me all the time.

"She's older now and so I have to leave her in a kennel. We've been together 24/7 for 13 years.

"Really that is the only thing because I love England and I love this cast."

Given America's love affair with Downton, bringing Shirley into the …