Granny's Past And A Baby Bates? Downton Abbey Season 5 Scoop

Last year, Downton Abbey went through a transitional season dealing with major loss but also laying the groundwork for what could be a very intriguing fifth season. Before the series returns stateside on Sunday, Jan. 4 on PBS' Masterpiece, the cast -- Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, Joanne Froggatt, Allen Leech along with executive producer Gareth Neame -- attended the Television Critics Association fall previews on Tuesday to present select clips from the upcoming season. Dockery said that she's pushed past her grief and is embracing her new life, which means that she's "got a bit of her bite back." Gregson still appears to be MIA, and as for her daughter Marigold, having her nearby and being raised by the farmer creates heartbreaking challenges. Carmichael also dismissed the rumor that Lady Rosamund (Samantha Bond) is Edith's mom, but said she understood why fans would think so because they're part of the "not-brunette gang of the Crawley family." From Downton's Lady Edith to House of Cards' Claire: TV's most stylish characters Anna and Bates (Froggatt, Brendan Coyle) The beloved downstairs couple are still dealing with the aftermath of her rape by Green (Nigel Harman), but there appears to be some healing, judging by a sweet conversation they have about possible future children. Masterpiece executive producer Rebecca Eaton also added that one hour before Downton's January premiere, The Manners of Downton Abbey documentary will feature set historian Alastair Bruce explaining just how much gloves and other touches matter on the show.