Two great dames will go head to head at this year’s Emmy Awards in a clash of the costume dramas.

Dame Maggie Smith and Dame Eileen Atkins are both nominated in the category for supporting actress in a miniseries or movie for their roles in Downton Abbey and Upstairs, Downstairs respectively.

Two other stars of the hit shows are nominated, with veteran actress Jean Marsh nominated for lead actress in a miniseries or movie after she reprised her role as Rose Buck in the BBC1 remake of the hit show.

She, along with Dame Eileen, was one of the creators of the original Upstairs, Downstairs which was set at upmarket 165, Eaton Place in London’s Belgravia.

Ms Marsh is up against Elizabeth McGovern who plays the Countess of Grantham in ITV1’s Downton Abbey. Also in the running are Oscar winner Kate Winslet for her performance in the title role in Mildred Pierce. Other British talent recognised includes Hugh Laurie who was nominated for lead actor in a drama series for House.

He is up against actors including Mad Men’s Jon Hamm and Steve Buscemi, recognised for his role in prohibition-era drama Boardwalk Empire, for the award. That show also sees Scottish actress Kelly McDonald nominated for her role as housewife Margaret Schroeder in the supporting actress in a drama series category.

Idris Elba also gets a nod for his portrayal of cop John Luther in BBC1’s Luther with a nomination for lead actor in a miniseries or movie.

Scot Alan Cumming is nominated in the supporting actor in a drama series for his role in The Good Wife and So You think You Can Dance presenter Cat Deeley gets a nod in reality show host ­category.