'Downton Abbey' first black character to be 'handsome' with 'charm and charisma'

"Downton Abbey" may soon have a first black character on the show as producers have sent out notices to casting agents, New York Daily News reports Feb. 27. The British series is set in the 1920s and race relations would further be explored by casting the first black character.

So far "Downton Abbey" has cast has expanded to include Catholics and Americans among the storylines. As the article pointed out, the show's writer -- Julianne Fellowes -- has been keen on keeping the "concerns conversational and often witty rather than nasty and vicious."

What type of person will the "Downton Abbey" first black character be? The casting notice reads that he will be "handsome" with "charm and charisma." This individual will not be limited to being just playing help -- or a musician -- as often seen in many shows filmed in that era. Exploring the character's role in the 1920s within the cast will give the show a rich dynamic for next season.

Filming for the next season of "Downton Abbey" begins March 23. A pair of aristocrats will be also be added in season four -- one who drinks and the other who could be a potential love interest for widowed Lady Mary.