'Downton Abbey' Season 5 Spoilers: Cast News Released for Next Season

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Friday, February 14, 2014

"Downton Abbey" fans are preparing for the finale of Season 4 on PBS, with many already looking ahead at spoilers for season five. The Golden Globe-winning series will air its finale of Season 4 on Feb. 23, but fans can already look forward to next year as the confirmed list of actors set to join the British drama in season five was leaked this week.

First, Richard E. Grant is set to join "Downton" as Simon Bricker, a guest of the Granthams who visits Downton Abbey. The actor is best known for his roles on TV series such as "Girls" and "Doctor Who." Next, Anna Chancellor will guest star during season five in the role of Lady Anstruther.Rade Sherbedgia will also appear on "Downton" as a Russian refugee.

"We look forward to introducing these new characters to our Masterpiece audience," Masterpiece executive producer Rebecca Eaton said in a statement, according to E! News.

Managing director of Carnival Films and "Downton Abbey" executive producer added that "the characters they play are set to bring yet more excitement and intrigue to the show."

Speculation about other season five details include who else may join the cast. Matt Damon recently revealed that he would love a chance to appear on the hit British drama during a live interview with Absolute Radio. When asked if he "would be upstairs or downstairs," the actor said he would be happy with either one.

"Wherever they would like to put me, each would be a challenge," Damon replied. The "Bourne Identity" star noted that his wife is a huge "Downton" fan.

Despite any changes to the cast, writer of the series Julian Fellowes revealed that all the characters are "irreplaceable." Season five of "Downton Abbey" is set to premiere in the U.K. in Fall 2015, with the U.S. to follow in winter. Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Jim Carter and the rest of the "Downton" cast will each return as well.