‘Downton Abbey’ season 5 video: See George Clooney, Elizabeth McGovern in ITV sketch

It is not too long now when Christmas will finally be here, and for “Downton Abbey” fans, that means a great opportunity to see many of your beloved characters again … including George Clooney?

Well, sort of. The truth here is that we’re not going to be seeing the actor in the episode itself, but rather a Text Santa event that is going to air on December 19 during an annual charity special on ITV. It is meant to be funny, and you have to believe that it will be given the talent involved here.

What this clip, which is short but features Clooney and Elizabeth McGovern, is at least a reminder of the fact that this, despite its alternate-universe premise, is really meant to be within the Downton universe or at least something that feels relatively like it.

As for how George likely got involved with the show and this set in the first place, we would attribute it at least in part to his relationship with series star Hugh Bonneville. Last year, Hugh took a brief break from season 4 production in order to film some scenes in Clooney’s movie “The Monuments Men.”

This Christmas Special will air on Christmas Day, and then following that, the sixth season is going to air come September on ITV. For Americans, the new season is going to be premiering on PBS in January. Sadly, we doubt that this sketch with Clooney will ever make its way to TV. We’d say to look for it on YouTube.

What do you want to see from this little sketch, and do you wish that Clooney was a part of the actual show? Share with a comment, and head over here to read some other “Downton Abbey” news! Also, you can sign up now to get some TV updates on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: ITV.)