When the viewers of Downton Abbey witnessed the death of Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens) at the end of the third season, genuine concern seemed to resonate with the series' fans.

However, new widow Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) will undoubtedly be smiling once again, courtesy of a new love interest, according to the Daily Mail.

The now single mother will reportedly be courted by a new love interest, heartthrob Tom Ellis.

The 34-year-old actor, who is married to Tamzin Outhwaite, impressed producers with his portrayal as the future object of Lady Mary's desire.

A source of the Daily Mirror states that Ellis' slew of female admirers combined with his acting chops are what ultimately landed him the role. 

"He really showed his versatility, and he's also incredibly popular with the female viewers."

The Welsh born Ellis is mostly known for his role as Gary Preston in the BBC comedy Miranda, but the transition to Downton Abbey could very well catapult his career in the U.S.

He'll surely be hoping that his character doesn't face a similar demise as Dan Stevens' did after the former show standout requested his release from the series for other acting endeavors.

Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes told New York Times that Lady Mary and her newborn daughter would not be alone for too long.

"We don't have to do funerals and all that stuff. That's all in the past by then."

Unlike Dame Maggie Smith (Dowager Countess of Grantham), Ellis is more than certainly watching as many episodes as possible of the British-American drama in anticipation of his first day on the set. 

The veteran actress admitted earlier in the month that she has yet to watch a single episode, reports the site.

"I was just pausing because I've never actually seen it. I don't sit down and watch it. No, I've never watched it," Smith said.

Tags: downton abbey television