‘Downton Abbey’ season 6, episode 4 preview: Allen Leech’s return; Joanne Froggatt – Brendan Coyle drama

Tonight on “Downton Abbey“, the wedding of Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes ended up bringing out one of the biggest surprises of the season so far: Tom Branson! We knew that Allen Leech had returned to the series thanks to him virtually confirming it earlier this year; with that said, we did not expect to see him so soon. We thought that Tom would give a life in Boston a go a little bit longer than he did; ultimately, he apparently decided that being in America was not for him.

The synopsis below will give you a further indicator of what is coming in next week’s big episode; let’s just say that really, Tom’s return is the tip of the iceberg for almost everything else that takes place:

“As Tom and Sybbie settle back into life at Downton, the family and servants are surprised with the return of another old friend in unexpected circumstances. A visit from Sergeant Willis leaves Baxter with a dilemma, while Thomas struggles to fill Mr Carson’s shoes. As a crisis takes Anna and Mary to London, will Bates find out what Anna has been keeping from him? Daisy has a bone to pick with Cora and Mary’s eye is caught by an admirer.”

Are we finally starting to get a sense that romance is in the air for many of our leading ladies? We’ve started to see some development in Edith’s love life after the disappearance and eventual confirmed death of Michael Gregson, and if Mary finds the person who is right for her, that will also be a cause of celebration. We feel like Julian Fellowes has done a commendable job making sure that they do not rush this story, or make it seem like Mary needs someone to ensure happiness.

What do you want to see on the next new episode of “Downton Abbey”? Let us know with a comment, and head over here for some further news, including a review of Sunday night’s episode! Also, you can sign up here to get some other TV news on everything we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: ITV.)