‘Downton Abbey’ season 5: Michelle Dockery has no plans to leave show now (or ever)

For those of you who are wondering whether or not the end could be near for Michelle Dockery on “Downton Abbey,” here is a shred of evidence to remind you that there is utterly no reason to think that she is going to pull a Dan Stevens or Jessica Brown Findlay and check out early.

The actress behind Lady Mary, and one of the show’s biggest breakout stars, tells The Hollywood Reporter that she mostly finds it funny that there are some out there even thinking that she wants to leave the show, given that this is not something that she has remotely expressed an interest in herself:

“I’m here to the end, whenever that may be … It amuses me more than anything, because it’s all speculation, and I think it’s down to the fact the show has such a popularity.”

We do understand the passions and decisions that can go into someone wanting to leave a show like this for films or other projects, since it does open up a level of creative freedom. However, Dockery does have this right from our vantage point. Staying with the show allows you financial freedom and flexibility, and there are also still at least three-four months of the year where you are not doing anything remotely related to the show. Thanks to that, you can use that time to start to pursue a few other projects here and there, and not have to worry so much about whether or not you need to find something more consistent. The show also yields more offers, since you are constantly on TV and fresh in the minds of many.

“Downton Abbey” season 5 is currently filming in the United Kingdom, and you can click here for some more updates via Joanne Froggatt. Also, sign up if you want to get some additional TV news and updates via our official newsletter.

Photo: ITV