Downton Abbey Returns!

I will admit it. I am a full Downton Abbey fan. I’ve seen every single episode of the last three seasons, and I was tempted to tune in before my US friends to watch it along with those across the pond. With the way that season 3 ended, can you really blame me?  For those of you who haven’t caught up, just know that there be spoilers throughout this post! I’m giving you fair warning! 

If you need a refresher, here’s a breakdown of who’s who of all of the characters. You’ll see that several characters are missing including Matthew and Sybil Crawley.

Matthew happened to die on the day of his son’s birth, via a car accident. I’m not sure that I have even processed how wrong Julian Fellowes is for that one. He did however explain, that most of the actors only signed on for three seasons before they realized how popular the series would be, and had started work on other projects. I’m still reeling.

It’s so fantastic that Downton Abbey has the ability to hold the attention of so many, for so many different reasons. Fashion, history, and just a whole lot of drama!

Lady Mary will now be 6 months out and still grieving and learning how to live her life without her love in it. If most people thought she was frigid before, I’m sure that they will think she’s ARCTIC when suitors come for her hand. Downton Abbey will not be able to handle the sharp tongue of the oldest daughter, and mother to the heir to Downton.

Lady Sybil also died from complications of childbirth and eclampsia. It was a HUGE trigger for me when I watched it.  Not that my sister passed away from childbirth, but I’m sure you get it. I cried like a baby. Mr. Houseful was stunned. It was an epic night in our Houseful.

Lady Edith also went through some growing pains. I kind of feel sorry for her, but she is a tad annoying. Jilted at the altar, she puts all of her soul into being a “spinster” and helping out where it’s needed. She also finds joy in working for a news editor and is also finding herself falling for him – even though he’s legally married. We’ll see more development on that later in the 4th season.

I loved the fact that we also got a closer look at downstairs. Mr. Bates was released from jail, Thomas and Jimmy have a close encounter, and well, the fun is all downstairs it seems. You’ll also notice that O’Brien isn’t pictured, because she’s GONE! That storyline is sure to produce some great quips from Thomas! The development of these characters are just as important as the upstairs.

I wonder if Carson will finally tell Ms. Hughes that he’s obviously in love with her. I also wonder if Anna and Mr. Bates will have a pregnancy in this season as well. So many questions!

There are also new faces this season! Lady Mary is going to be courted by two suitors, and she’s also going to do a great job of ignoring her baby who is now being taken care of Nanny West. I’m sure that Jack Ross has been brought on to help the wagging tongues that love to keep Lady Rose’s antics afloat.

All in all, I’m super excited, and can’t wait to cozy up with Mr. Houseful and catch the Season Premier of Downton Abbey tomorrow on PBS at 8:00 pm CST.

Whose storyline are you most looking forward to?