Gordon Ramsay, Bruce Forsyth, and Jim Broadbent audition for Downton Abbey

The stars took part in a sketch for ITV's annual Text Santa fundraiser.

Sir Bruce Forsyth. Gordon Ramsay, Jim Broadbent, Gok Wan, Michelle Keegan, and Warwick Davis all guest-starred as auditionees on Downton Abbey for ITV's annual Text Santa fundraiser. 

The sketch sees Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) looking to retire his annual appearance as Father Christmas at the house, recruiting Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) and Isobel (Penelope Wilton) to his aid in auditioning a replacement. Broadbent turns up wanting to "reinvent" the role, Keegan wins over Grantham with a rendition of "Santa Baby', Ramsay unleashes a predictably foul-mouthed tirade, and Forsyth turns to tap dancing in an effort to impress the judges.  

Amidst all the star names, Downton's betrodden butler Carson (Jim Carter) becomes increasingly desperate to secure the role for himself; ending the sketch by turning up in the only outfit guaranteed to convince the panel of his worth. 



Grantham also references last year's surprise guest for Text Santa's Downton Abbey skit, "Who's booking these guests? Last year we had George Clooney." Indeed, the Hollywood actor turned up for an It's a Wonderful Life-alternate reality in which Lord Grantham had never been born, and Clooney's suave Lord Hollywood had taken his place. 

Although the Text Santa fundraiser has already aired, it is still possible to donate to the cause, which helps support Macmillan Cancer Support, Make-A-Wish UK, and Save the Children. All you need to do is text SANTA5 to donate £5, or SANTA10 to donate £10, to 70760.

The 2015 Christmas Special, the last ever episode of Downton Abbey, will air Christmas Day on ITV.