Joan Collins for Downton Abbey role?

Joan Collins is reportedly being lined up for a role in the next series of Downton Abbey.

The Daily Express claims the Dynasty actress is in line for a cameo role in the third series of the hit ITV1 drama. According to the tabloid newspaper producers are hoping to secure her for a role as the cousin of the Violet, the Dowager Countess (Dame Maggie Smith).

“A number of cameos are being planned for the next series and Joan’s name is top of the list. It’s hoped she can be persuaded to appear in at least one episode.” – A “source” told the Daily Express

Downton Abbey‘s recent festive outing proved a hit for ITV1 with 8.6 million viewers tuning in for the two-hour special. The episode saw Mr Bates (Brendan Coyle) convicted of murdering his vicious ex-wife Vera (Maria Doyle Kennedy) while Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens) finally proposed (again) to Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery).

The third series of Downton Abbey, which will be set between 1920 and 1921, will begin production in the Spring with it airing most likely late in 2012 on ITV1.