Downton Abbey: Can PBS Keep Up The Viewing Numbers After This Season?

Downton Abbey will air its final episode on March 6th and many fans are wondering if they’ll be able to cope with the end of the immensely popular show. Downton Abbey has put PBS back on the map...
Downton Abbey: Can PBS Keep Up The Viewing Numbers After This Season?
Written by Lacy Langley
  • Downton Abbey will air its final episode on March 6th and many fans are wondering if they’ll be able to cope with the end of the immensely popular show.

    Downton Abbey has put PBS back on the map for a lot of people, but can they keep the numbers up after Downton Abbey is gone?

    Since Downton Abbey won three Emmys during a time when PBS was in danger of being defunded by the government, the show is basically the reason PBS is still aired.

    PBS is going to be hard-pressed to find a ratings boost like Downton Abbey. Of course, now they air the British series Sherlock, but the seasons are short and unpredictable.

    Lady Cora is looking divine, as always! #Downton #DowntonAbbey #BehindTheScenes #TheFinalSeries #Makeup #Costume #pbsmasterpiece

    A photo posted by Downton Abbey (@downtonabbey_official) on

    They also have the new Civil War drama, Mercy Street, of which Variety TV executive editor Debra Birnbaum said, “The network can breathe a sigh of relief that its drama slate seems secure with the Civil War-set series.”

    We shall see.

    Can you recall the scene? #Downton #DowntonAbbey #BehindTheScenes #TheFinalSeries

    A photo posted by Downton Abbey (@downtonabbey_official) on

    PBS president and CEO Paula Kerger spoke last month about what kept people flocking to Downton Abbey, “It’s good stories well told. That’s the most powerful reminder from Downton Abbey. I believe it can happen again.”

    She also announced a new Great Performances selection called Hamilton’s America, which will feature the very popular play.

    She added, “Our commitment to the arts is deep. We’re the logical place. We’re built to do this.”

    I suppose only time will tell if PBS will be able to recreate that Downton Abbey magic. Do you think they’ll be able to?

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