Paul Giamatti Joins 'Downton Abbey'

Paul Giamatti has joined the cast of "Downton Abbey" for the show's upcoming fourth season.

TVLine reports that Giamatti will appear on "Downton Abbey" as Harold Levinson, Cora's (Elizabeth McGovern) brother in the Season 4 finale, alongside Shirley MacLaine who returns as Cora's mother Martha. The character is described as a playboy and maverick.

A rep for Masterpiece confirmed TVLine's report to The Huffington Post. "We're excited that Paul Giamatti will be joining us on 'Downton' to play Cora's brother Harold, the rather free-spirited uncle to Mary and Edith," Gareth Neame, managing director of Carnival Films, said in a statement. "We can't wait to see him work alongside Shirley MacLaine, who are both sure to upset the Grantham's apple cart in this year's finale.”

Giamatti isn't the only new face on "Downton Abbey" next season. Tom Cullen will play Lord Gillingham, a family friend of the Crawleys; Nigel Harman will play Green, a valet; Dame Harriet Walter will play Lady Shackleton, a friend of the Dowager Countess; Joanna David will play the Duchess of Yeovil; Julian Ovenden will appear as aristocrat Charles Blake; and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa will debut as a guest who sings in the house.

"Downton Abbey" will also introduce its first black character. Gary Carr will play Jack Ross, a jazz singer. Lily James will also return as Rose.

"Downton Abbey" returns to PBS on Sunday, January 5.