Downton Abbey

I may be late to this party, but I must say, this is one of the best shows I’ve seen in a while. I’ve been ambling through many Masterpiece Theater classics and so forth for a while. I’m fond of the old Jane Austen adaptations.

Downton Abbey tells about a family without a son for an heir and the misgivings of the entire family about what to do. Lots of emotion, intrigue, mystery and the whole cast is nothing less than touching.

It starts in 1912, just after the sinking of the Titanic, when a family realizes the only male heir to the estate went down with the ship. Scrambling for the security and stability of the household, both the aristocratic family and the servants are ensnared.

When I realized it was left with almost a cliffhanger at the end, I nearly threw a book at the TV. I was scared that was the end to it all and there was no conclusion. I researched it and the PBS website has claimed they picked it up for a second season.

We’re delighted with the audience response to Downton Abbey and the positive critical reaction. We’re extremely proud to have commissioned a series which has clearly captivated ITV1 viewers. Consequently, we’re thrilled to be announcing the recommission of a new series for 2011 which will allow us to spend more time with the Crawley family and their servants.

— Laura Mackie, ITV Director of Drama Commissioning

They have already begun filming for the second season, which was supposed to have started in March. Hopefully it will be ready as planned for the release in Autumn 2011 with a Christmas special to come after.

*Squeeeeeeeee!*

I honestly can’t pick a favorite character. Even that horrible Thomas, as much as they get you to hate him, you keep hoping someone will hit him hard enough to straiten up.

The series is available on Netflix right now. Do watch it or buy the DVD series. I plan on doing so soon, as I don’t think I want to give up this series any time soon.

Forgive me if I squeal more as the new series approaches. Expect it.

Bates has to be one of the most enjoyable of the characters. None are worth missing, but John Bates’ mystery of his past was something I was so hoping to learn more about. I will be awaiting the fall season with fervor.