‘Downton Abbey’ season 4 spoilers: A new look at Lily James’ Lady Rose

While the departure of Dan Stevens’ character of Matthew Crawley may be the one thing that has “Downton Abbey” fans the most upset going into season 4, we’re here to discuss what really has most of them the most concerned: A larger role for Lily James’ character of Lady Rose. When it comes to trying to preserve the balance of the show, she is really the replacement to Jessica Brown Findlay’s Sybil in the way that Allen Leech could step in to fill the Matthew role somewhat as Tom Branson. However, there are concerns about Cousin Oliver syndrome setting in, or that she will be a knock-off that will not bring us the same happiness that Sybil once did.

Are we this pessimistic about Rose? Not really, mostly because we can tell you that producers are not trying to have her represent the same exact thing as Sybil. Instead, Rose is going to be more of a symbolic character of the changing times, with her free-spirited attitude and also a possible romantic interest in a black jazz musician named Jack Ross. These are things that are new for many in the upper-class, and this wild child could ironically be the most progressive character within this world.

James is a series regular this year after making a couple of appearances last year, and it will be interesting to see just what the future holds for her on the show beyond this year, given that she has a major movie in the works in Disney’s live-action retelling of “Cinderella.”

Do you think that Rose will be nails on a chalkboard, or someone who is actually engaging this season? If you do want to check out some more scoop from the world of “Downton Abbey,” don’t worry: We have that for you and then some here!

Photo: ITV