The cast and crew of "Downton Abbey" have started filming Season 5. When it returns for Season 5, this British period drama will introduce three new characters, including Simon Bricker, played by Richard E. Grant.

On February 15, 2014, Grant had tweeted: "First day on DOWNTON ABBEY duty. Was downstairs in GOSFORD PARK. Been promoted upstairs. Progress? Will wait and see." Masterpiece of PBS had reported that Bricker will be introduced as a guest of Granthams.

Also, "Downton Abbey" team has roped in Anna Chancellor and Rade Sherbedgia for the new season. Anna's character is called Lady Anstruther, while Rade will portray the role of Kuragin.

The report describes Kuragin as a Russian refugee. After the First World War, this character "fled from the Russian Revolution." Previously, Jimmy Kent, the footman, was an employee of Lady Anstruther. Wet Paint report suggests that the lady herself coming to the town will throw-up some interesting twists for Kent.

"We are delighted to welcome these talented actors to the world of Downton," Gareth Neame, executive producer of Downton Abbey, said in a statement. "The characters they play are set to bring yet more excitement and intrigue to the show."

Guest cast-members Dame Harriet Walter and Peter Egan will return in Season 5 to reprise their roles as Lady Shackleton and Lord Flintshire, respectively.

"Downton Abbey" was renewed for Season 5 in November. The Season 5 might be the final season, as the series creator is not sure about Season 6. Julian Fellowes, series creator of "Downton Abbey," had said to The Wall Street Journal, "I don't know yet if there is a season 6, but it's not going to go on forever. It won't be 'Perry Mason'."

Talking about the Season 5, Neame had said to The Hollywood Reporter: "We promise all the usual highs and lows, romance, drama and comedy played out by some of the most iconic characters on television."

At the Television Critics Association in August, Neame had said "... we're all doing season five next year. Beyond that, we really don't know."