Rebecca Eaton

The Emmy Award-winning producer of PBS's Masterpiece Theatre and Mystery! reveals the secrets to Downton Abbey, Sherlock, and its other hit programs. For more than twenty-five years and counting, Rebecca Eaton has presided over PBS's Masterpiece Theatre, the longest running weekly prime-time drama series in American history. From the runaway hits Upstairs, Downstairs and The Buccaneers to the hugely popular Inspector Morse, Prime Suspect, and Poirot,...

The Great War rages across Europe, and not even the serene Yorkshire countryside is free from its effects. The men and women of Downton are doing their part: heir Matthew Crawley and footman Thomas Barrow are off fighting, while Lady Grantham and Isobel Crawley are squabbling over whether Downton should be used as a hospital. Lady Mary is seeing a wealthy newspaper magnate while Lady Edith becomes much warmer and Lady Sybil seeks to ingratiate herself...

As Season Five begins in 1924, the radio is the latest miracle, a new Labour government heralds changes through the land, and Downton's traditional ways are besieged on all fronts. Robert, Mary, and Branson must navigate these shifting sands together to ensure the future of the estate for generations to come. As Branson finds himself playing a more crucial role at Downton than ever before, he can't help but question his place in the world. Mary is...

Alison is on the tail of the elusive 'Dorothy,' finding photographs of her from Alec's time in India. After speaking to Alec's handler and hearing that their 'relationship' was likely a cover story, Alison traces Dorothy to Yorkshire and insists on the truth. Back in the 1940s, Alison struggles with the aftermath of Alec's decisions, forced to raise her young family in poverty in wartime London.

Alison delves further into her past with Alec, remembering both the good times and the terrible -- while trying to uncover the true depth of her husband's lies. Hearing wildly differing theories, one painting Alec as a wronged hero, the other as a cruel fantasist, an overwrought Alison is no longer sure who to believe. A final revelation inspires a profound and drastic new beginning for Alison.

Asked to clear a man convicted of animal mutilation, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle finds there's more to the case than meets the eye.

A year has passed and there are new additions to the March family, but there is worry all around as Beth's health and spirits flag. Amy is chosen over Jo to go on a tour of Europe. Jo flees to New York to pursue her career, but devastating news from home cuts Jo's adventure short. The family reunites upon Amy's return, which is made more joyful by unexpected news and a surprise visitor.

As Marmee waits by her husband's sickbed, the March sisters must learn to cope without their parents. Together they face unrequited love, hurtful rumors, trouble at school and the toll of sickness. Meg and John Brooke's relationship develops, as do Jo's literary prospects. Jo grows anxious as the future for her and her loved ones seems fraught with challenges.

Sir Arthur and Woodie get a shock after they order their driver to "follow that carriage!" Matters reach a crisis with Jean.

Tensions run high between Caroline and her husband, whose political star is ascending.