In March we had learned that Siobhan Finneran’s Mrs. O’Brien character will not return for Downton Abbey series 4. But don’t worry! Thomas will still have someone to be miserable with.

That’s according to Rob James-Collier, who plays the slimy-yet-cute character, Thomas, in Downton Abbey. His character had a particularly nerve-racking plot line towards the end of series 3. Thankfully, a change in attitude from Robert, Earl of Grantham saved him.

While “the doors are open for [Finneran] to return,” according to James-Collier, “Fans won’t be disappointed next season. I’m pretty sure Thomas will find someone else to fall in line with him and start sniping. But no one could replace O’Brien. Never!”

O’Brien’s departure on the show is said to take place off screen. She may be taking a job with Lord Robert’s cousin in India.

We’re hoping Thomas can finally get the love he deserves in the upcoming season.

Dan Stevens (who played Matthew Crawley) and Jessica Brown Findlay (Lady Sybil) have also decided to depart the show and won’t be seen in Downton Abbey season 4.

The new season began filming a couple months ago, and it is expected to premiere later this year on ITV in the U.K. PBS has not decided if they will air the season at the same time as their U.K. counterparts, but that won’t stop Americans from watching the show the same day our English friends do.

Thanks to TV Guide magazine via Downton Abbey Addicts.