‘Downton Abbey’ Adds Three New Cast Members

The cast of Downton Abbey Renewed for Season 5
The cast of 'Downton Abbey' (Photo © ITV/Carnival)

Masterpiece on PBS and Carnival Films just announced the casting of three new roles on season five of Downton Abbey. The new cast members joining the critically acclaimed dramatic series are Richard E. Grant (Doctor Who) as Simon Bricker (a guest of the Granthams at Downton Abbey), Anna Chancellor as Lady Anstruther, and Rade Sherbedgia as a Russian refugee.

In addition, Masterpiece revealed that Dame Harriet Walter will be back as Lady Shackleton and Peter Egan will return as Lord Flintshire.

“We look forward to introducing these new characters to our MASTERPIECE audience. They will make a wonderful addition to the beloved Downton Abbey ensemble,” said MASTERPIECE Executive Producer Rebecca Eaton.

Added Downton Abbey’s Executive Producer Gareth Neame, the Managing Director of Carnival Films, “We are delighted to welcome these talented actors to the world of Downton. The characters they play are set to bring yet more excitement and intrigue to the show.”

Among the cast members returning for season five are Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, Jim Carter, Penelope Wilton, Phyllis Logan, Samantha Bond, Laura Carmichael, Lily James, Allen Leech, Brendan Coyle, Joanne Froggatt, Lesley Nicol, Sophie McShera, Rob James-Collier, Ed Speleers, Kevin Doyle, Raquel Cassidy, David Robb, Tom Cullen, Julian Ovenden, Daisy Lewis, Douglas Reith, Jeremy Swift, and Andrew Scarborough.