‘Downton Abbey’ Season 4 Premiere: Mary’s Dark World Between Life and Death

On Sunday, Jan. 5 ‘Downton Abbey’ fans will rejoice because the hit period drama series returns to the states! I can hear the tea kettles whistling, the bells ringing and the gongs gonging in preparation for the Season 4 premiere.

As fans know, the third season left Matthew Crawley (and Mary and Matthew shippers) devastated. So, where can the fourth season take us?

Well, I can tell you (because I was extremely lucky to screen the premiere) the first episode of Season 4 opens six months after Matthew’s death in the 1920s with Mary in a very dark place. Can she ever recover from the tragedy and live without her one true love? Only time will tell.

Now, with Matthew gone, Lord Grantham and Branson are figuring out how to manage the estate without their son-in-law and brother-in-law, respectively.

Per usual ‘Downton’ fashion, Cora has more staff issues, Isobel deals with the loss of her only child, Edith and Michael Gregson are figuring out their “relationship,” and, of course, drama ensues downstairs and upstairs.

To hold you over until the premiere, here are a few more satisfying teasers.

-This might not be much of a teaser, as it was revealed awhile ago, but Miss O’Brien makes her exit this season. Besides Thomas, who will take her place as the new schemer of the house?

-As stated above, Mary is in a very dark place this episode, and fans will see a new side to the eldest daughter -- whether that be good or bad, you’ll have to wait and see.

-Like each episode shows, technology and appliances are developing even more. For example, Daisy gets to use an electric mixer/beater. Do you think Mrs. Patmore will be happy with the new kitchen addition?

-Let’s just say Branson’s relationship and admiration for his daughter, Sibby, is absolutely adorable.

-Don’t fret, Thomas is still up to no good, but his antics with George and Sybil's new nanny is something to look forward to.

Be sure to watch the two-hour Season 4 premiere on Sunday, Jan. 5.