Downton Abbey
Episode 1
Season 1, Episode 1 · Aired 2010-09-26
Synopsis
Costume drama set in an Edwardian country house in 1912, written by Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes. The lives of the Crawley family and Downton Abbey's servants are changed for ever when the sinking of the Titanic leaves the estate without its heir and his son. The arrival of a new valet shocks the staff, who scheme to make his stay as short-lived as possible.
From the desk: Downton Abbey opens its catalog run with “Episode 1” (2010-09-26). Global historical drama hit that paved the red carpet for The Crown's later sweep. Cast movie deals, "will Lady Mary ever be happy?" discourse, and costume envy.
In the series
This episode is part of Downton Abbey (2010–2015) on ITV/PBS.
Edwardian upstairs/downstairs comfort epic — tea, titles, and soft class warfare.
Key cast
- Hugh Bonneville as Robert Crawley
- Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley
- Maggie Smith as The Dowager Countess
- Elizabeth McGovern as Cora Crawley
- Jim Carter as Mr. Carson
- Phyllis Logan as Mrs. Hughes