‘Downton Abbey’ season 3 will not be the last; season 4 officially a go

Anyone who is a “Downton Abbey” fan has been waiting for this news for quite some time; and just like it was promised recently, it is now official: season 4 will be airing on ITV next fall. When you consider that this is the network’s highest-rated drama series, and that it is an enormous success around the globe, this news was never fully in question; however, isn’t it still a nice thing to hear one day after Thanksgiving?

In a statement announcing the news for the first time, ITV executive Laura Mackie praised the showrunners for their devotion to the series, and promised that some more great things are on the way at the famous residence:

“We’re thrilled to welcome back a drama series that has become a much anticipated part of all our lives every autumn and achieved success around the globe. [Series creator] Julian Fellowes and the production team, led by Gareth and the producer Liz Trubridge, never rest on their laurels and have exciting plans.”

Now that this news is official, we now turn to another all-important question: just who will be returning to the Abbey for more? The vast majority of the show’s regulars are already confirmed to be making appearances, but there are a few exceptions including Maggie Smith (the Dowager Countess) and Dan Stevens (Matthew), who has been spending the past few weeks in New York on Broadway. Negotiations with the actors will probably be the next step of the process, as you need to know their status on the show before you can start to plan out just what will unfold for the characters in the scripts.

Are you thrilled for a “Downton Abbey” season 4 to be coming our way next year?