Watch This Now: Downton Abbey

I grew up on soap operas.

I learned how to talk to myself while looking out a window, argue in full make up, come back to life, and most importantly, age 10 years in one month (just like Shawn Brady).

 Happy holidays.

One of the great tragedies of our generation has been the cancellation of these delicious gems (RIP "All My Children").  This sad reality made the discovery of "Downton Abbey" that much sweeter.

We are British and we rule.

If you haven't heard of this one, it's probably because it's on PBS. This singular fact makes me feel tremendously smart. It's like NPR, but on TV.

Synopsis: Downton Abbey is a huge English manor run by Earl & Countess Grantham. In case you're wondering, "running a house" equates to wearing fabulous ensembles to every meal, walking the grounds, and looking for a husband. The real heroes on this show are the butlers, footman, cooks & maids who do all of the dirty work - literally. 

 We know all your secrets, stupid rich people.

The show really excels when these two worlds collide. The feisty sister who helps her maid secure a better future. The loyal relationship between the Earl & his haunted footman. The beautiful bitchy daughter whose big 'ol whoopsie dasiy is covered up by her loyal minions.

It all plays out like one big classy soap. Only here, the acting is good, the stories aren't predictable, and I think it's safe to say that no one will be possessed by the devil.

Oh, Marlena.

Fringe benefit? You'll actually be supporting public television. The last time you did that Mr. Rogers was taking you to the Land of Make Believe. Besides, who wouldn't want to live in a world where being a Countess is possible, wearing Oscar-worthy gowns on a daily basis is the norm & no one has ever heard the term "gluten free".

Download the first season (7 episodes) here.