'Downton Abbey's lead characters might like to think they're safe from the writer's axe this year, but they may just have to think again, judging by the glint in writer Julian Fellowes' eye.
Actress Lesley Nicol aka cook Mrs Patmore said only last week, "There aren't any plans for any big characters to die this year."
The sudden death of Matthew Crawley (actor Dan Stevens) left Christmas Day viewers distraught
But writer Julian Fellowes, when pressed by the Daily Telegraph, raised his eyebrows and murmured, "You see, I only finished the last script on Tuesday."
Hmm...
Previous, unpredictable exits from the show include those of Matthew Crawley - new father, car crash, Christmas Day ruined for many viewers, the reason Lady Mary became a living ghost - and Lady Sybil - brand new baby, old doctor, old ways of working, deathbed scene and a devastated Branson.
And those of Bates' first wife - injustice finally righted - and of Lady Mary's Turkish diplomat Pamuk lover - discretion does not allow...
Lady Sybil's sudden death came tragically after she'd given birth to her first child with husband Branson
The first teaser trailer for 'Downton Abbey's fifth series looks ominous enough, but fans of the phenomenon will have to wait until October to see what fates are in store.