Many of us are eagerly awaiting 2014, ready to implement those resolutions and goals.
I’m with ya on those, too, but there’s another event I’m looking forward to this week: the start of Season 4 of Downton Abbey! In our neck of the woods, the first episode of the new season airs this Sunday, January 5th.
For those of you not familiar with it, Downton Abbey (created by Julian Fellowes) is a BBC series set in early-20th century England, revolving around the Earl of Grantham’s family and their extensive below-stairs staff. The series began with the family being affected by the sinking of the Titanic, proceeded on to and through WWI, and is currently set in the post-WWI years. The costumes and set are breathtaking, the stories are riveting, and the actors bring to life the memorable characters.
A fan favorite is the character of Dowager Countess Violet Grantham, portrayed by Maggie Smith. A few months ago I shared an amusing clip (the swivel chair scene) in this post. For anyone interested in the 60 Minutes interview with Maggie Smith and have the time (it’s 15 minutes long), click here.
But for those of you looking for a quick laugh and a refresher of what you love about this series, here’s a mash-up clip of one-liners and scene bits featuring the irrepressible Lady Grantham. Enjoy!
Do you follow Downton Abbey? What are your favorite moments? I’d love to hear from you!
Best wishes for a happy 2014!
~Kathy
My wife and I caught the last three episodes of DA at the end of season three. We just finished watching seasons 1-3 as they have rerun them on PBS this winter. We are looking forward to the new season.
I can’t decide on a favorite moment, as there are so many great story lines. I think the characters that really spice it up are O’Brien and Thomas. I love it when they are actually against each other rather than conspiring together. Hughes can also give Carson everything he wants and more. The other thing I love about the show is that even though the women of DA are legally unimportant, they actually run the place.
Bring on Season 4.
Kerry
Hi, Kerry – nice to see you! That happened to me near the end of season 2, and I was hooked. Went back and watched from the beginning.
Those characters you mention are terrific – I love the below-stairs stories as much as the others! Mrs. Hughes is fabulous. She certainly holds her own.
Happy New Year to you and your family!
and a Hapy New Year to you and your family as well.
Kathy – Oh, I love that show! And the Dowager is my favourite character. So much personality! OK, I disagree with her a lot, but still…
Anyway, a very Happy New Year to you and your family. Here’s to a great 2014!
Thanks, Margot! Happy 2014 to you and yours.
I still have not seen this show and have heard so much about it. One day I will.
Happy New Year! Be safe and healthy.
Whenever you do, Phil, let me know. I’d be curious as to your take on the series. Happy New Year to you, and thanks for your support this past year!
Yes, we are looking forward to this season. Even my daughter, Teresa is hooked (although not nearly as much as she is to Doctor Who, and she is not infatuated with any Downton cast member as she is with David Tennant).
I received your book (#1) for Christmas.
Happy New Year!
It IS hard to compete with David Tennant!
I hope you enjoy your Christmas gift, Bill. Happy New Year!
Thanks for letting me know! I didn’t know when the series was returning. Yes, indeed. I am definitely a fan! Especially of the inimitable Maggie Smith. I’ve loved her ever since A Room with a View, and she never disappoints.
Happy New Year!
Glad to help! We can’t have you missing the new season, can we?
I don’t watch the show but the video clips were wonderful. Wouldn’t you love to see a bloopers video with this woman? That would be fantastic!
Thanks for sharing and happy new year, Kathy!
Patricia Rickrode
w/a Jansen Schmidt
What a great idea, Patricia! Happy New Year to you, too! I am so grateful for your continual support, and I hope 2014 is extra kind to you!
My in-laws just sent us Season 4 on DVD from London! Can’t wait to get to it. I have to agree with you about the Dowager — she’s a hoot. I’ve always admired the equanimity and gentleness of Lord Grantham as well. Great writing there — where the heroes and villains are pretty equally distributed “upstairs” and “downstairs.”
You have terrific in-laws, Debra! Enjoy…but now spoilers! 😉