'Downton Abbey' Series 4: 'Miranda' Star Tom Ellis To Play Lady Mary's New Love Interest?

'Downton Abbey's' Lady Mary could end up with Miranda's dream man in series four of the hit ITV period drama.

Tom Ellis, who plays Gary in BBC sitcom 'Miranda', has reportedly been shortlisted for the role of Mary's new love interest.

An ITV source told The Mirror: “We know that Tom’s got a lot of other options at the moment but if he does get the role it will be an incredible opportunity for him."

Tom Ellis is rumoured to be joining Downton

At Christmas, viewers were left shocked when Mary, played by Michelle Dockery, lost her new husband Matthew (Dan Stevens) after he was killed off in a tragic car accident on the way home from visiting his wife and new child in hospital.

However, Julian Fellowes has revealed that he's not too disappointed about Stevens' exit from 'Downton' - because it will bring more drama for Lady Mary Crawley.

The show's creator promised that there will be juicy plots for his widow in upcoming fourth series.

He said: "I adore Dan, I love him and wish him nothing but good things. He was terrific for us but that said, it's very hard to dramatise happiness."

Dan Stevens and Michelle Dockery in Downton

"Now Mary, having been very happy, is having to fight her corner again and having to protect the interests of her child. In a way, that's interesting dramatically."

The writer added: "So it doesn't dismay me. I wanted him to stay and I wish he had stayed, but given that he hasn't, I don't think we're in the ditch. We just have to hope I'm right."

Stevens has been starring in 'The Heiress' on Broadway since leaving Downton and his debut is officially a hit, after producers of the show revealed they'll make their money back.

Last week it was revealed he could be joining a new stately home as he's the favourite to take a coveted role in a 'Pride And Prejudice' spin-off as Mr Darcy.