All Downton Abbey fans know the classic Promo picture of the cast looking intently at the camera with the house in the background. But with some new characters and new openings, who will make it on? Spoilers Ahoy!

Each season of Downton Abbey has come with its own poster. You know the one. Showing the Downton’s heiarchy. Lord Gratham at the top standing next to The Dowager and Lady Grantham and Poor Daisy all the way in the back.

Series 1

Series 2

Series 3

On all of these gorgeous, timeless promotional photos, there have been a total of 18 characters. No more, no less. Given this fact, it makes an interesting situation for series four.

Now that (very, very unfortunately) Lady Sybil and Matthew Crawley are no longer with us, their spots are up for the taking. Along with the assumption that Martha Levinson, played by the phenomenal Shirley Maclaine, will not be appearing in season four and thus not on the poster, that makes a total of three openings.

The contenders for these prime spots include the new house staff we have met this past season, such as Jimmy, Alfred, and Ivy. Also in the running is the newest member to the upstairs communinty, who will presumabley become regular come the new season, is Lady Rose MacClare. Lady Rose was introduced at the end of season three and appeared in the Christmas special where it was announced that she would be coming to stay at Downton.

Some other possibilities include: The children, Miss Sybil Branson and the yet-to-be-named Master Crawley (the son of Lady Mary and Matthew), the recently announced Lord Anthony Gillingham (a new suitor for Lady Mary), the Nanny of both or one of the children (she seems to also have been given a big plotline), and, although extremely unlikely as it will be his fourth season and I’m not entirely sure where he stands now after the Christmas special, Mr. Moseley.

Series three’s poster was the first time no footman featured, understandably for Jimmy as he wasn’t to join until episode four, but Alfred seems to have been snubbed. Alfred appeared in the premiere of season three, but did not make it on the promotional material. Ethel was on the season two one even though it was her first year, so perhaps Alfred is doomed to Moseley’s fate. And let’s face it if Alfred isn’t on, Jimmy isn’t getting on. First footman or not.

I’m aware that series four is a tad ways away, but what else can occupy Downtonians’ thoughts during the lonely months until we see that beautiful house and those lovely characters again.

Who do you want to see on the poster? Who you think will make it into one of the three spots?