Downton Abbey Draws Huge Ratings In America

The third season premier of Downton Abbey has drawn huge ratings in America.

According to reports the season three opening episode, which guest stars Shirley MacLaine, was seen by a huge 7.9 million viewers – a figure broadcaster PBS will be delighted with. The figure is much higher than the season two opener – which had 4.2 million viewers – and proves that America hasn’t fallen out of love with Downton Abbey just yet.

It also demonstrates that, despite complaints about the gap between UK and American broadcast of episodes, viewers aren’t too bothered.

The third season of Downton Abbey aired in the UK late last year and was followed by a festive special on Christmas Day. A fourth season has now been officially commissioned by ITV.