Exec hints changes for Downton Abbey Series 4!

The death of Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens) in the 2012 Downton Abbey Christmas Special, left many wondering how the show can continue after losing two of its main stars (Jessica Brown Findlay‘s character of Sybil died at the beginning of series 3).

However Downton Abbey exec Gareth Neame has said it’s an opportunity for the show to take a “different direction”.

Speaking to E! Online, Neame said, Matthew’s death will lead to a whole lot of soul-searching for his widow Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) as she attempts to “rebuild her life” in series 4.

“This is a lesson in something that seems like a really big loss in the moment [that] will actually turn into a great opportunity” Neame said.

Adding: “Which it will also be for the show, to take a turn in a whole different direction.”

Downton Abbey series 4 will air on ITV in the Autumn, followed by a Christmas. In the US, the third series is currently airing on the PBS network.