'Downton Abbey' is currently in the midst of filming its fifth season at Highclere Castle in Berkshire. From where Season 4 ended, the story is set in 1924 when the British Empire first introduced the socialist government. Aside from the old characters' discovery of their pasts, new casts will also join the clan.

As for the plot, Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, will unravel her past while Bates and Anna continue to struggle with the aftermath of her rape. Meanwhile, 'Gravity' actor George Clooney is reported to appear in the 'Downton Abbey' Christmas Special. According to The Guardian, he might be acting together with Hugh Bonneville and Michelle Dockery.

Fans should expect heightened drama, more romance, and new faces to grace the all new episodes. Actress Daisy Lewis has also been cast to play Sarah Bunting, who is going to be Branson's new love interest. Other newcomers include Sue Johnston as the Dowager Countess' new lady's maid and Anna Chancellor as Lady Anstruther.

'Downton Abbey', which has earned over 9.2 million viewers worldwide since its first broadcast on September 2010, is evidently a great success. Producer Liz Trubridge told Telegraph UK that the original plan was set on three years, but that was extended due to popular demand.

"We knew that we had very good scripts and a top-caliber cast. But we never in our wildest dreams thought that it would be as successful as it has been. Our dream, when we first set out, was to make three series - before, during and after the First World War - to explore the social history of a house and the people who lived in it. That was all," Trubridge explained.

'Downton Abbey' Season 5 premieres on September 21 at 9 PM on ITV.