‘Downton Abbey’ season 5 spoilers: ‘Coronation Street’ actress signs on

While “Downton Abbey” announced many of its guest stars (Richard E. Grant and others) earlier in the year as production started on season 5, they have saved one of the biggest ones for now.

ITV has confirmed that Sue Johnston of “Coronation Street” and “Waking the Dead” will guest star on the series as Denker, the Lady’s Maid to the Dowager Countess Violet. Admittedly, this is not the most substantial slice of casting news out there in theory, but who knows? With this show, it is always certainly possible that what looks to be a tiny casting turns out to be one of the most significant ones possible.

“Downton Abbey” season 5 does not have a formal premiere date yet, and probably will not for a little while given that this is the way that British television does things. However, you can expect to see it around September, and then with the Christmas special coming yet again around the holiday season. As for whether or not this will be the end of the road for the show, it feels unlikely, given that there has not been anything said just yet in regards to this being a final season. As a matter of fact, there have been more denials about this very fact than just about anything else.

There may still be some further casting updates that are out there, and if you are awaiting some of those, do not worry: We’ll have them as soon as they are available. Hopefully, there’ll be another big name or two!

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Photo: ITV