‘Downton Abbey’ season 5 spoilers: Richard E. Grant, more join cast

Yesterday, we discussed some of the actors who are going to be coming back for “Downton Abbey” season 5, and this time around, the good news is that there are no notable departures. Even Maggie Smith, who is so famous that she can basically depart from the show at any time that she sees fit, has decided that she will also grace the series with her presence yet again moving forward.

Now, we are here to at least discuss for a minute or two some of the faces that will be joining this talented crop of folks moving forward. Here are the three new castings that were confirmed this week in a press release by the show.

Richard E. Grant – The famed actor will play Simon Bricker, a man who arrives at the estate as a guest of the entire Grantham family. Likely, there is a history there that we have yet to witness.

Anna Chancellor – The actress from “The Hour” in the West End will play Lady Anstruther, who is relatively unknown save for her name and the connection to status that comes with that.

Rade Sherbedgia – The “Taken 2” actor will be play the part of Kuragin, a Russian refugee who fled that country following world War I. This is certainly a very different energy on the show.

In a statement, executive producer Gareth Neame had the following to say about these bookings:

“We are delighted to welcome these talented actors to the world of Downton. The characters they play are set to bring yet more excitement and intrigue to the show.” 

Do you like these castings, and are you very much excited to see the road ahead on “Downton Abbey” season 5? Share some of your thoughts below, and be sure to also visit the link here to catch more on the returning faces to next season.

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Photo: ITV