The Downton Abbey cast is back to work, filming the British period drama’s fourth season — but it’s not exactly a cause for celebration. This new batch of on-set photos reveal the Crawley family and its associates gathering to mourn the loss of the fan-favorite character who died in the third season finale.

Unless you’re way behind on Downton Abbey — in which case, I don’t know why you’re reading this — Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens) was killed on the show’s Feb. 17 season finale. After meeting his new baby with wife Mary (Michelle Dockery), the new dad was simply out and enjoying a drive through the English countryside, unaware of the fate that awaited him.

In these photos, we see Matthew’s mom Isobel (Penelope Wilton), the Dowager Countess (Maggie Smith), Anna (Joanne Froggatt), Bates (Brendan Coyle), Dr. Clarkson (David Robb) and that drunken fool Molesley (Kevin Doyle).

We also see that no-good Rose (Lily James), who totally looks like she’s laughing. She so would.

Inside Matthew Crawley’s Tragic Death

Fans worldwide were crushed when Matthew died at the end of Downton Abbey‘s third season — though not as crushed as Matthew, since he was literally crushed by the weight of his own car. And as much as the show’s creative team would have loved to keep Matthew alive, that simply wasn’t an option.

“We weren’t really faced with an alternative storyline, because I think audiences would not have accepted Mary and Matthew becoming estranged,” executive producer Gareth Neame explained. “It was too big a journey that the audience had been on with this relationship. The idea that he would go off on the journey and she wouldn’t go with him, or the idea that he would leave her or she would leave him, I think that would have been so disappointing and unbelievable to an audience. The only course open to us was that the character had to die.”

HollywoodLifers, have you come to terms with Matthew’s death? Browse these new photos, then drop a comment with your thoughts on season four.

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

More Downton Abbey on HollywoodLife.com:

1. ‘Downton Abbey’ Casting First Black Character In Season 4 — Report
2. ‘Downton Abbey’: Meet Mary Crawley’s New Man
3. ‘Downton Abbey’ EP Defends Season Finale Death: Why He ‘Had To Die’

“Why?!” That was the word on every Downton Abbey fan’s mind — well, the U.S. fans anyway — when one of the show’s main characters was killed in a car accident on the Feb. 17 season finale. And “why” is the question executive producer Gareth Neame answers in a new interview with Entertainment Weekly. As it turns out, the explanation is two-fold.

First and foremost, Dan Stevens did not re-up his contract for the show’s fourth season. Gareth says the creative team was given enough notice to write Matthew out of the show, but due to the epic nature of his relationship with Mary (Michelle Dockery), there was only one way for him to go.

“We weren’t really faced with an alternative storyline, because I think audiences would not have accepted Mary and Matthew becoming estranged,” Gareth explains. “It was too big a journey that the audience had been on with this relationship. The idea that he would go off on the journey and she wouldn’t go with him, or the idea that he would leave her or she would leave him, I think that would have been so disappointing and unbelievable to an audience. The only course open to us was that the character had to die.”

Needless to say, recasting was also not an option.

Season 4 Spoiler: What’s Next For Mary?

Now that Mary is a single woman again — this time with a baby and a late husband — everyone wants to know what will become of her. Gareth promises that “the destiny of Mary and her child is a big spine of the new season,” but plays coy when discussing Mary’s romantic future.

“Inevitably that means she’s got to, at some point, [find a] new man,” Gareth explains. “She’s an eligible young widow. So we shall see.”

HollywoodLifers, have you come to tearms with Matthew’s death? And would you like to see Mary move on with someone new? Drop a comment with all of your feelings!

Entertainment Weekly

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

More on Matthew’s Downton Abbey death:

1. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season Finale Recap: Death Takes Another Crawley
2. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 4 Scoop: How Mary Will ‘Move On’ From Matthew

The Crawleys made their annual trip to Scotland on the Feb. 17 season finale of Downton Abbey, but even though they got far away from home, they brought all of their baggage with them: Mary (Michelle Dockery) bickered with Edith about her relationship with that newspaper chap, Anna revealed her “racy” side to Bates, and the family officially decided to house Rose while her parents go to India — even though Rose sucks.

A very pregnant Mary also had everyone concerned when she had to leave the Ghilles’ Ball early — oh, did I forget to mention there was another time jump and she’s pregnant now? — but she was able to get home and give birth to a healthy baby boy just in time.

Of course, the Crawleys’ celebration will likely be cut short when they learn of the tragedy that occurred just after the birth: While out on a joy ride through the countryside, Matthew (Dan Stevens) collided with another vehicle; his body was discovered in a ditch, and sadly, he didn’t survive.

Read: How Mary Will ‘Move On’ From Matthew In Season 4

The Drama At Home

As always, there was no shortage of drama back at Downton. Here’s a rundown of what happened to our favorite servants this week:

1. A saucy little maid named Edna played mind games with Tom (Allen Leech), trying to make him feel awkward for marrying into a higher class. Of course, this was all part of her plan to lure him in, which she did; she walked in on him naked — shirtless on Downton Abbey is basically naked — and kissed him. Needless to say, she got fired.

2. Dr. Clarkson tried to get all up in cousin Isobel this week by revealing interesting facts about himself, like: I always get drunk before bed. Unsurprisingly, she wasn’t feeling the good doctor, so she let him down gently — and pretty awkwardly. Then he diagnosed her as being a tease and went on his way.

3. A full-on creeper names Joss Tuftin paid a visit to the abbey with a ‘special package’ for Mrs. Patmore. She was so smitten by his incomprehensible accent, and his ability to eat soup with his hands, that she almost agreed to marry him — until he was revealed to have his eye on other laides. All other ladies, actually.

4. After a rowdy game of Tug-Of-War, a group of nogoodnicks ganged up on Jimmy (Ed Speleers.) Fortunately, Thomas (Rob James-Collier) was literally stalking him, so he was there to save the day. He took a beating so Jimmy could escape, which allowed Jimmy to see they really could be friends — just not the kind of friends that kiss each other when they’re asleep.

How do you feel about Matthew’s shocking death? Did you see it coming? How do you think it will affect the series moving forward? Watch the heartbreaking scene below, then drop a comment with your reactions.

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

More Downton Abbey:

1. ‘Downton Abbey’ Recap: Thomas Finally Puts The Moves On Jimmy
2. ‘Downton Abbey’ Recap: Robert & Cora Clash Over Sybil’s Death
3. ‘Downton Abbey’ Recap: Everyone Suffers Sybil’s Labor Pains

Oh, Downton Abbey, how we’ve missed you. The show’s Jan. 6 season premiere brought back the entire Crawley clan — along with a super-sassy Shirley MacLaine as Cora’s mother — for a wedding event full of tears, drama, and of course, bitchy old-world asides from Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess. (“An aristocrat without servants is as useful to the county as a glass hammer.”)

Unfortunately, the splendor of Downton is being threatened in season three, as a serious of bad investments by Robert (Hugh Bonneville) has basically cost everyone their fortunes. This just reinforces what I’ve always believed about Robert: He’s the absolute worst. Edith (Laura Carmichael) clearly inherited all of his genes.

OK, let’s check in with what the rest of the Abbey crew was up to this week…

Matthew & Mary: 

After two long years of ‘courtship,’ it was so rewarding to finally see Matthew (Dan Stevens) and Mary (Michelle Dockery) — who are already related, but we’ll overlook that weirdness — become husband and wife. In fact, their nuptials were one fine Pippa Middleton ass away from outshining the Royal Wedding. The only hiccup with their big day came when Matthew learned he could be inheriting Lavinia’s family’s money — you remember Lavinia, the chick who died from that wicked cold in season two — and he didn’t want to use it to bail Downton out of debt. Mary delivered a powerful speech about being on her family’s side (Emmy please!), but the two eventually made nice. Thank God.

Tom & Sybill: 

My favorite part of the episode for my favorite couple was when Sybill’s former suitor Larry Grey — whose one giant cocky eyebrow rivals any of histories’ most cartoonish villains — slipped a pill into Tom’s drink, causing him to be drunker/sexier than everyone else at the dinner party. After a brief outburst, Edith’s ancient boyfriend called Larry out on it, and everyone lept to Tom’s defense. The Crawleys stick together, and no man can stop them. No matter how enormous and absurd his eyebrow is.

Edith & The One-Armed Man: 

It’s a shame Edith is living out her sad, awkward life in the 1920s, because you know what she really needs? A sassy gay friend, one who would force her to take a step back and analyze her extremely poor life choices. For example, why is she literally throwing herself at Sir Anthony, the 100-year-old man with one good arm? Like, I get that Edith is super-unfortunate in looks and personality, but at least she’s got money and a title. That goes a long way in her weird little world!

Anna & Bates:

Oh, these two. Anna spent much of the premiere visiting Bates — who could totally play Kyle Chandler‘s much-older brother in a movie — in prison after being convicted of killing his wife. (Personally, I think she sucked and killing her should have earned him a medal, but whatever.) Determined to prove his innocence, Anna collected a list of all his acquaintances to try and see if any of them could confirm that Vera was suicidal. Maybe it would help if Anna just went back and watched season two! God, what a dummy.

The Rest Of The Help:

Downton’s downstairs department was surprisingly quiet this week, considering the impending wedding, but we did get to meet one new recruit: O’Brien’s super-ginger nephew Alfred! The mistress of miscarriages finagled a job for her nephew, but Thomas (Rob-James Collier) wasn’t exactly eager to help him graduate to valet — a decision that will haunt him for the rest of the season, mark my words. If there’s one thing you must remember as the season unfolds, it’s that O’Brien is a dirty bitch who mustn’t be trusted. Also remember that Daisy is whiney and terrible… but that shouldn’t be hard to forget.

What did you think of the season premiere? Was Matthew and Mary’s wedding everything you dreamed it would be? Drop me a comment with your review of the episode!

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

More Downton Abbey on HollywoodLife.com:

1. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 3: Five Most Epic Moments To Look Forward To
2. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 4 Scoop: How Mary Will ‘Move On’ From Matthew
3. ‘Downton Abbey’ Creator Reveals Prequel Plans For Robert & Cora

A lot of things can be said about Downton Abbey‘s third season — premiering Jan. 6 on PBS — but one thing is certain: It’s the most eventful, ambitious and surprising collection of episodes yet. Between the new servants, the new house guests, and the major Crawley family milestones, there will be no shortage of drama during the next seven weeks. HollywoodLife.com got an early look at the entire season, so allow us to brace you for five of the biggest story lines to come.

Mary Marries:

Without a hint of exaggeration, Mary (Michelle Dockery) and Matthew’s (Dan Stevens) wedding is literally the most highly anticipated event in television history, and we finally get the goods on the Jan. 6 season premiere. My only complaint is that the actual wedding is squeezed into the final moments of the episode. Aside from a beautiful Kate Middleton-style carriage ride through the town, you barely get to see the festivities! (At least she looks damn good in white.)

Sybil’s Baby Drama:

When Sybil (Jessica Brown Findlay) returns to Downton for Mary’s wedding, she brings two very special guests with her: husband Tom — the hottest guy on the show, and no one can tell me otherwise — and a growing baby bump! And speaking of “bump,” expect a few hiccups when Sybil’s baby finally decides to enter the world this season. (What, did you expect a smooth delivery at Downton?)

Sucks To Be Edith:

We all know Edith (Laura Carmichael) is the most unfortunate human to dwell within Downton’s hallowed walls — she’s pretty much the Meg Griffin of the Crawley family, who exists solely to make everyone else feel better about themselves — but she’ll finally find some happiness in season three.  Good news for the haters, though: Edith’s fleeting moments of joy come with many, many strings attached.

Thomas’ Life Gets Compli-gay-ted:

Remember when Thomas (Rob James-Collier) kissed that guy in season one and then everyone basically forgot he was gay? Well, one person didn’t forget, and that person will use said knowledge of gayness to manipulate him in a pretty significant way this season. And while I won’t name names, I will say the manipulator’s last name rhymes with Mo’Brien. (Good luck solving that puzzle.)

Bates Behind Bars:

I’m not going to lie to you; Bates’ (Brendan Coyle) prison story line is one of my least favorites in season three, but only because it drags on way too long. Fortunately, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and by the end of the season, you’ll be glad you waited through it — especially fans of Bates’ relationship with Anna (Joanne Froggatt). Patience is a virtue, kids.

What are YOU most excited to see when Downton Abbey returns this Sunday? Drop me a comment with your wishes!

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

More Downton Abbey on HollywoodLife.com:

1. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 4 Scoop: How Mary Will ‘Move On’ From Matthew
2. http://hollywoodlife.com/2012/12/27/downton-abbey-matthew-crawley-dies-video-spoilers/
3. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 3 Trailers Reveal New Couples & New Tragedies

British GQ recently released the 50 best dressed men in Britain of 2013. A lot of familiar faces were on the list, and these men all know how to style on the red carpet. Who says that only women can style and profile? Even though Robert Pattinson is always number one in our books, he was rated number seven on GQ‘s list. He was beat out by Downtown Abbey‘s Dan Stevens and five other Brits. There is no doubt that he knows how to look clean, classy, and sophisticated, but so does RPatz!

Robert has stolen our hearts since the release of the first movie in the Twilight saga. His charm, and not to mention sexiness, had us all lovestruck since day one. Although Dan Stevens never seems to dress down and is always ready for the cameras, RPatz can pull off pretty much anything. Whether he is wearing a classic suit or a beanie and Ray-Bans, he still turns heads.

Coming in at number 7 out of 50 is a pretty good position, and you can guess that Robert beat out some pretty stylin’ dudes. To name some of them, he placed higher than Andrew Garfield, One Direction’s Zayn Malik, David Beckham, Prince William, Mick Jagger, and Orlando Bloom.

Prince William came in at number 37 out of 50. The traditionally dressed prince didn’t place as high as we expected. He always looks charming with his best accessory, Kate, latched onto his arm, but I guess that wasn’t enough for GQ to place him higher.

One of the few men who beat Robert, Dan Stevens, shows us that he not only dresses nicely as Matthew Crawley on Downtown Abbey, but he has quite the fashion sense in real life. His off-screen appearance is equally marvelous, and that seems to be the main reason he got the number one spot.

All of the winners always dress to the nines, but we want to know your opinions! Do you think RPatz should have gotten first place? Comment and VOTE below.

Victoria Brophy

More Related News:

1. Robert Pattinson Cuts Off His Gorgeous Locks: Love Or Loathe?
2. Real Reason Kristen Stewart & Robert Pattinson Spent Christmas Apart
3. Robert Pattinson & Kristen Stewart’s Quiet NYE — Private Life In 2013?

Downton Abbey fans’ dreams for the future were shattered when Dan Stevens confirmed he wouldn’t be returning to the show for its fourth season, thus leaving Michelle Dockery‘s Mary without her other half. Dan’s final appearance on the show aired Dec. 25 in the UK, and broadcaster ITV released a super spoiler-y press release about his departure the following day.

Update: Read Our Recap Of The Season 3 Finale!

“After three successful series and two Christmas editions of Downton Abbey, Dan Stevens decided not to renew his contract beyond the initial three years he had been contracted,” the statement read. “We wish him every success for the future. Michelle Dockery will be returning to her role as Lady Mary in series four which begins production in February.”

“Over the last three years, audiences across the world have been captivated by the ups and downs of Mary and Matthew’s relationship, culminating in their wedding,” the network continued. “Fans have enjoyed what has become a solid and loving marriage. It is for this reason that the Producers decided Matthew and Mary could not simply be estranged or parted, resulting in his untimely and tragic death at the end of the Christmas episode.”

The statement also gave fans a glimpse of what’s to come when the show returns with new episodes in 2013:

“In the next series, alongside all the usual drama, comedy and romance involving the much loved cast of characters, viewers will see Mary adjusting to her life and attempting to move on without the man she loved.”

Matthew Crawley’s Tragic Fate:

Fans’ minds were blown when news first broke that Dan was considering leaving the show, mostly because no one could fathom how his character could logically be written out without causing Downton to jump the shark.

Well, we finally got our answer Dec. 25 during the final moments of Downton‘s Christmas special, A Journey To The Highlands, when — spoiler alert! — Matthew’s car collided with another vehicle, leaving him dead and bleeding in a ditch. It was pretty brutal.

Adding to the tragedy of it all, Mary had just given birth to their son.

Dan Stevens’ Official Statement About Leaving ‘Downton Abbey’:

“We were always optioned for three years, and when that came up, it was a very difficult decision,” Dan admitted to the UK’s Telegraph. ”But it felt like a good time to take stock, to take a moment. From a personal point of view, I wanted a chance to do other things.”

“It is a very monopolising job,” he continued. “So there is a strange sense of liberation at the same time as great sadness because I am very, very fond of the show and always will be.”

He also lamented the end of Mary and Matthew’s fan-favorite storyline: “After everything we have been through it will be sad not to see the relationship continue.”

Sad indeed.

Watch Matthew Crawley’s final scene on Downton Abbey below, then drop a comment with your thoughts on the show’s future:

ITV press release

The Telegraph

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

More Downton Abbey on HollywoodLife.com:

1. ‘Downton Abbey’ Creator Reveals Prequel Plans For Robert & Cora
2. ‘Downton Abbey’ Stars Get Glam In Vintage-Inspired ‘Vogue’ Germany Shoot
3. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 3 Trailers Reveal New Couples & New Tragedies

Two new Downton Abbey trailers hit the web this week — one from British broadcaster ITV, and another from PBS — and they both reveal some wild surprises from the show’s upcoming third season, including a new forbidden romance for Thomas (Rob James-Collier), who apparently does have emotions under all those layers of evil.

Thomas, whose gay story line was more or less swept under the rug after the first few episodes of the show, is seen spying on new footman Jimmy (Ed Speleers) as he strips down to his birthday suit. But before you go celebrating Downton’s newest couple, it’s also worth noting that Thomas is later seen crying. So that probably won’t end well.

But Thomas isn’t the only one getting weepy! Lord Crawley (Hugh Bonneville) and Matthew (Dan Stevens) are also seen in various states of distress, while Bates (Brendan Coyle) shows off his darker side by getting physical with a man in an alley.

Never a dull moment at Downton!

Watch both new trailers below, then drop a comment with your hopes and predictions for season three:

Watch More ENTV Videos!

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

More Downton Abbey season 3 scoop:

1. 4 ‘Downton Abbey’ Wedding Spoilers: Mary’s Dress & More
2. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 3: Four Spoilers From The New Trailer
3. ‘Downton Abbey’ Pics: Mary & Matthew Are Finally Getting Married