The Best Seasons of 'Downton Abbey'
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List of the best seasons of Downton Abbey, ranked from best to worst, with DVD cover images when available. Fans of Downton Abbey are very passionate about the series, so it's no surprise that arguments are often had over which is the best season of Downton Abbey. This ranking of all Downton Abbey seasons has been voted on by many fans of the show, so this list isn't just one person's opinion.
Some of the greatest episodes of Downton Abbey come from different seasons, so determining what the best Downton Abbey season is can be challenging.If you're wondering, "What is the best season of Downton Abbey?" and "Which season of Downton Abbey is the best?" then this list will answer your questions. And if you're looking for your next series to binge, these shows like Downton Abbey might be just what Doctor Clarkson ordered.
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The first season of Downton Abbey premiered on September 26, 2010 and contains seven episodes. This season introduces viewers to the Crawley family and their servants on the estate.
Memorable moments from Season 1 include:
- Cora suffers a miscarriage.
- Anna tells Bates that she loves him.
- Matthew withdraws his marriage proposal to Mary.
The third season of Downton Abbey premiered on September 16, 2012 and contains eight episodes and a Christmas special. This season finds the Crawley's facing financial ruin and unrest in Ireland.
Memorable moments from Season 3 include:
- Matthew becomes joint master of Downton along with Lord Grantham.
- Matthew and Mary are married.
- Bates is released from prison.
The second season of Downton Abbey premiered on September 18, 2011 and contains eight episodes and a Christmas special. This season primarily focuses on the effect that war is having on the characters from the Battle of the Somme in 1916 to the Armistice in 1918.
Memorable moments from Season 2 include:
- John Bates is found guilty of murder.
- Lavinia sees Matthew kiss Mary.
- Lord Grantham gives his blessing for Sybil and Branson to marry.
The sixth season of Downton Abbey premiered on September 20, 2015 and contains eight episodes and the finale. Secrets and rifts threaten the unity of the family this season, while those below stairs continue to navigate social changes which put their futures in jeopardy.
Memorable moments from Season 6 include:
- Isobel is invited to the wedding for Lord Merton's son.
- The local hospital is threatened with a take-over.
- Lady Shackleton visits.