‘Downton Abbey’ season 4, episode 6 review (PBS): Did Maggie Smith’s Violet die?
Going into tonight’s “Downton Abbey” season 4 episode, we understand that you probably had quite a few questions when it comes to some characters. For example, what in the world was happening with Robert? Well, if you remember a certain movie in theaters now called “The Monuments Men,” Hugh Bonneville’s role in that is one of the reasons why there is a little gap in scenes for the character this season.
But, we know that the question most people had going into this episode regarded the fate of Maggie Smith, and whether or not the Dowager Countess what going to make it through this hour after falling ill. If this show does last for long enough, we imagine that this character will die at some point. After all, there is only so long that we can really envision Smith doing this before wanting to move on to some other things. (By the way, we focus our American reviews on just a subject or two; click here to read our comprehensive take on the episode from when it aired in the UK.)
However, this was not her time to die. The Dowager started to see her health improve by the end of this episode, and it’s a good thing, given just how much of a story there was for her to be involved with still. You had Lady Mary learning the ways of mud-wrestling over pigs, Edith finally deciding that she does not want to just abort her baby, and also Rose’s relationship with Jack Ross getting plenty of time in the spotlight (even if not everyone else was thrilled with it).
But we’re sure what most people are concerned about over right now is what the return of Mr. Green could mean to the show, and to some of the characters. Think of that as the major cliffhanger to what is going to be coming up. We originally graded this episode a B, and that may have even bee a little generous given that this was short on iconic moments. There just could have been more movement in here.
What did you think about tonight’s “Downton Abbey” episode? Be sure to share some of your thoughts below, and click here to read some more news related to the show … including a preview for next week’s episode soon. Also if you want to get some TV scoop sent straight to your email then be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter.
Photo: ITV