‘Downton Abbey’ season 4 notes: Rob James-Collier, Elizabeth McGovern, Sophie McShera

We have a few interesting things to talk about today when it comes to “Downton Abbey” season 4, but let’s kick this off with a little bit of talk about the Emmys. We already know that the ITV / PBS series is an Emmy darling, who is submitting for nominations … but in what spot? This is where things start to get a little bit interesting.

According to a new report from Gold Derby, one of last year’s actual nominees in Brendan Coyle (Mr. Bates) is not on the ballot this year for Supporting Actor, which comes as somewhat of a surprise given his talent and the story arc of the character this past season. However, the site claims that Rob James-Collier (Thomas) is hoping to secure a nomination of his own this year. He has an outside chance, though our two favorite supporting actors for this past season are probably still Coyle and Allen Leech. Jim Carter is always fantastic, but Mr. Carson really didn’t have that much to do.

On the Supporting Actress category, the big news is that Elizabeth McGovern is submitting here rather than as a lead, which she did last year. We could see her making a case for either category, but we almost figure that with a cast this size, really the only actual lead for the show is Hugh Bonneville.

In other news – Lily James may have some company courtesy of one of her co-stars in the upcoming adaptation of “Cinderella” on the big screen. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Sophie McShera is negotiating to play one of her wicket stepsisters. It’s a rather great casting that makes sense if it happens, but isn’t the movie getting close to just recreating “Downton Abbey” again? The film also has Richard Madden in it, for those of you who are still sad about … well, you know.

If you want to read some more “Downton Abbey” season 4 details courtesy of Michelle Dockery, all you have to do is click here.

Photo: ITV