Downtown Abbey Seasons 1-4

Downton Abbey seasons 1 through 4 offer a captivating glimpse into the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their dedicated staff in the early 20th century. Season 1, released in the UK on September 26, 2010, and in the US on January 9, 2011, begins with the aftermath of the Titanic disaster in 1912, which alters the line of succession for the Downton estate. The season explores themes of inheritance, class distinctions, and societal changes leading up to World War I. Major actors include Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, and Jim Carter. Gareth Neame, Julian Fellowes, Rebecca Eaton, Nigel Marchant, and Liz Trubridge served as executive producers. Directors for season 1 included Brian Percival and Brian Kelly. Box office performance for the individual seasons is not readily available, but the subsequent "Downton Abbey" film released in 2019 grossed over $194 million worldwide.

Season 2, which aired in the UK from September 18 to November 6, 2011, and included a Christmas special on December 25, 2011, covers the period of World War I and its impact on Downton and its inhabitants. Love, loss, and dramatic shifts in social order are central themes. Many of the original cast members returned, with new additions. Directors for season 2 included Ashley Pearce, Andy Goddard, Brian Kelly, and James Strong.

Season 3, broadcast in the UK from September 16 to November 4, 2012, with a Christmas special on December 25, 2012, sees the marriage of Lady Mary and Matthew Crawley and the challenges of managing the estate's finances. The introduction of Shirley MacLaine as Cora's American mother adds another dynamic. Directors for season 3 included Brian Percival and Andy Goddard.

Season 4, aired in the UK from September 22 to November 10, 2013, with a Christmas special on December 25, 2013, deals with the aftermath of a tragic loss and explores new relationships and evolving roles within the household. Directors for season 4 included David Evans and Philip John. Julian Fellowes was the primary writer and creator throughout these seasons.