‘Downton Abbey’ season 5, episode 4 preview: Michelle Dockery’s Mary and a decision

The first thing you should know about next week’s all-new “Downton Abbey” season 5 episode is very simple: There will be a slight time change. Rather than airing at 9:00 p.m. local time as it has so far this season, the show will be shifting back 15 minutes, along with the results show for “The X Factor” UK.

Based on what we saw in tonight’s episode, it is pretty fair to say that quite a bit will be transpiring when it comes to story. Thomas could be in danger, Violet’s secrets from her past will be revealed, and a return of Rose’s father could shake things up in a big way. (His last big role was the season 3 Christmas Special.)

If you want some further news in terms of what to expect, then take a look at the official synopsis for the episode below:

“Sarah Bunting continues to cause waves above stairs, but this time she may have gone too far. On returning to Downton, Thomas is suffering from an inexplicable illness but Baxter suspects there is more to it than he is letting on. Meanwhile, Violet reveals to Isobel the surprising truth of her past with Prince Kuragin and Mary comes to a decision concerning Lord Gillingham. When Rose’s father Shrimpie returns to Downton, he breaks some news that will shock the whole family.”

Mary’s decision is also going to be a big one, though for the time being, it appears as though it feels close to a sure thing that Gillingham will be a key part of the show regardless. We’ve come to know him so well at this point that it is hard to see things without him.

Also next week, Mary meets a certain someone from Tony’s past! Can you say “awkward” quickly enough?

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Photo: ITV