Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 1 recap revisited: Death of an heir, a new valet, and a new suitor for Lady Mary

Downton Abbey debuted fifteen years ago on 26 September 2010. The iconic British drama blew up as soon as it aired on ITV in the UK, entertaining and informing fans about what happens behind the glamorous walls of aristocratic mansions. The first episode opens on a somber note as the Earl of Grantham, Robert Crawley, learns that his cousin James Crawley has passed away.

This event sets up a chain of events involving the entitled Duke of Crowborough, played by none other than Charlie Cox. Marvel fans can see the British actor in Downton Abbey Series 1, five years before he became Daredevil.

"It is April 1912, and news arrives of the sinking of the Titanic with the loss of Downton's heir James and his son Patrick."

Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 1 recap

Here are some of the major events in the Downton Abbey series 1 premiere:

• Death in the family

After a montage of the domestic staff working in the mansion of the Grantham Estate, Lord Robert Crawley learns that his cousin, presumptive Earl James Crawley, and his son Patrick tragically perished on the Titanic the day before. Patrick's passing is a huge blow because Robert Crawley's daughter, Lady Mary Crawley, was about to marry him.

• Robert hires John Bates

The pilot episode also introduces a character who continues to play a key role in the Downton Abbey franchise: John Bates. Bates was a military man, but an injury resulted in his dismissal. Lord Robert Crawley hires Bates as his Valet, much to the chagrin of the staff, especially the footman, Thomas Barrow, who eyed the Valet. Speaking of Thomas Barrow:

• Philip, the Duke of Crowborough, arrives for condolences

Philip's character was described as the impoverished but entitled Duke of Crowborough, who has a secret. He arrives to give his condolences and even to ask Lord Grantham for his daughter's hand in marriage. The Duke believes that Lady Mary was going to inherit the Grantham fortune, and that's why he wants to marry her.

However, Philip is also having an affair with Thomas Barrow, and the latter also reveals his plan. Barrow lured Philip to facilitate his marriage with Lady Mary for the inheritance. Thomas aims to install himself as Philip's Valet after the wedding. When the Duke expresses some disinterest in the marriage, Thomas blackmails him with the letters the Duke wrote him.

However, Philp manages to burn those letters, getting rid of the leverage Thomas had over him. The Duke leaves the estate the very next morning after that, marking Charlie Cox's only appearance in the beloved British drama. Fans have hoped for the Daredevil actor's return in the British drama for a while, but he has not reprised his role ever since the series 1 premiere in 2010.

"The Downton Abbey estate stands a splendid example of confidence and mettle, its family enduring for generations and its staff a well-oiled machine of propriety. But change is afoot at Downton - change far surpassing the new electric lights and telephone."

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All seasons of the British drama are available through streaming on Disney+, Peacock, and Prime Video across the world.

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