‘Downton Abbey’ season 4: PBS to preview new episodes with Susan Sarandon-hosted special

Good news for “Downton Abbey” fans in America: Here’s an article that you can actually read! There are no spoilers ahead, and this is a merely an story all about how you can best be prepared for the show’s return to PBS on Sunday, January 5. (Yes, we know that is still an insanely long time to wait.)

The network announced today that PBS is currently planning to unveil a special on Sunday, December 1 at 9:00 p.m. Eastern time, which is going to contain an array of highlights from the first three seasons. Given that it will have been nearly a year at that point since you’ve watched the show, this could be a nice opportunity to catch up on everything that you have missed (or forgotten about) in the time since you’ve been away. Not only that, but this is perfect if you’re new to the series, want to see what all of the fuss is about, but don’t have the hours in your life to watch dozens of episodes in preparation for something else to do while your significant other watches NFL playoff games. If you’re a fan of Susan Sarandon you’ll be pleased to know that she will be the host of the event.

“Downton Abbey” has been a ratings smash for PBS almost since it first aired, with last season in particular drawing ratings records across the board. However, the numbers in Britain have been on the decline, and there have been controversies (click here if you are not afraid of spoilers) related to some of the events that are taking place this season. It’s going to be a fun season when it hits American shores, especially since it will be interesting to see the reaction of American viewers to what people in Britain have already expressed strong reactions to.

Regardless of whether you enjoy your “Downton Abbey” early next year, or you like to find a way to watch at the same time as the British airings; we’ll have more scoop for you year-round. Stay tuned.

Photo: ITV