O’Brien, the notoriously scheming lady’s maid to Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham, makes her final appearance in Season 3, Episode 7 of Downton Abbey. Her departure is revealed at the beginning of Season 4, Episode 1, though the circumstances surrounding her exit are left somewhat vague.
The Mystery of O’Brien’s Exit
The sudden absence of O’Brien between seasons sent waves of speculation amongst Downton Abbey fans. While her exit is never explicitly shown on screen, we learn that she has left to take a position as lady’s maid to Lady Flintshire in India. This seemingly impulsive decision leaves Cora in the lurch and sets the stage for the arrival of a new, less malicious lady’s maid, Edna Braithwaite.
Why the Sudden Departure?
The real-world reason behind Siobhan Finneran’s, the actress who portrayed O’Brien, departure was a creative one. Finneran had reportedly expressed interest in exploring other roles, and the show’s writers decided to facilitate her exit. While the in-universe explanation hints at O’Brien’s ongoing pursuit of self-interest and advancement, the abruptness of her decision felt jarring to many viewers. It contrasted sharply with the carefully orchestrated departures of other key characters, leaving a sense of unfinished business.
The Impact of O’Brien’s Absence
O’Brien’s departure fundamentally altered the dynamic between Cora and her lady’s maid. While her malicious schemes often caused turmoil within the household, her long-standing presence also provided a certain level of stability, albeit a volatile one. The introduction of Edna, while intended to fill the void, ultimately served to highlight the complexities and contradictions inherent in O’Brien’s character. Edna’s manipulative nature was far more overt and less subtly nuanced than O’Brien’s, making her a less compelling antagonist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About O’Brien’s Downton Abbey Exit
Here are some frequently asked questions that address the nuances of O’Brien’s departure from Downton Abbey:
FAQ 1: Was O’Brien Fired from Downton Abbey?
No, O’Brien was not explicitly fired from Downton Abbey. The narrative implies she left of her own volition to take a better-paying position with Lady Flintshire in India. This suggests a focus on personal gain and advancement, a characteristic trait throughout her time on the show.
FAQ 2: What Episode Does O’Brien’s Replacement Arrive?
Edna Braithwaite, O’Brien’s replacement, arrives in Season 4, Episode 1, the same episode where O’Brien’s absence is first revealed. She is introduced quickly to fill the void left by O’Brien’s unexpected departure.
FAQ 3: Did Siobhan Finneran (O’Brien) Leave Downton Voluntarily?
Yes, Siobhan Finneran, the actress who played O’Brien, chose to leave Downton Abbey to pursue other acting opportunities. This decision led to the character’s abrupt departure from the show.
FAQ 4: Was O’Brien’s Exit Controversial Among Downton Abbey Fans?
Yes, the manner of O’Brien’s departure was somewhat controversial. Many fans felt the exit was rushed and didn’t provide sufficient closure for such a significant character. The lack of an on-screen farewell left many viewers feeling unsatisfied.
FAQ 5: Does O’Brien Ever Return to Downton Abbey?
No, O’Brien never returns to Downton Abbey after her departure at the beginning of Season 4. Her storyline is effectively concluded with her taking the position in India.
FAQ 6: What Was O’Brien’s Relationship Like With Thomas Barrow?
O’Brien and Thomas Barrow had a complex and often volatile relationship. They were frequently allies in their schemes and shared a similar cynical outlook on life. However, their alliance was always opportunistic and subject to betrayal when personal gain was at stake. Their relationship was fueled by mutual manipulation and a shared desire for power and influence within the Downton household.
FAQ 7: How Did Cora Crawley React to O’Brien’s Departure?
Cora Crawley was understandably surprised and frustrated by O’Brien’s sudden departure. She was left without a lady’s maid and had to quickly adjust to a new and unfamiliar presence in her personal life. While Cora often bore the brunt of O’Brien’s schemes, she also relied on her for daily assistance and companionship.
FAQ 8: What Kind of Legacy Does O’Brien Leave at Downton Abbey?
O’Brien leaves behind a legacy of intrigue, manipulation, and resentment at Downton Abbey. Her actions had a significant impact on the lives of many characters, particularly Cora and Thomas. She represents the darker side of service and the potential for personal ambition to corrupt even the most trusted confidantes.
FAQ 9: Where Did O’Brien Go After Leaving for India?
The series provides no further information about O’Brien’s life after leaving for India. Her fate remains ambiguous within the Downton Abbey narrative.
FAQ 10: Was O’Brien’s Character Based on a Real Person?
While not directly based on a specific historical figure, O’Brien’s character is believed to be inspired by the dynamics of servant-master relationships in early 20th-century England. Her character reflects the power imbalances and potential for abuse within those relationships, as well as the complex social dynamics that existed below stairs.
FAQ 11: Who Was O’Brien Closest To at Downton Abbey (Besides Thomas)?
Beyond her alliance with Thomas Barrow, O’Brien arguably had a close, albeit complex, relationship with Lady Grantham. While she often manipulated and betrayed Cora, there was also a level of dependence and intimacy that developed over years of service. O’Brien was privy to Cora’s secrets and anxieties, and her presence provided a sense of stability, even if it was built on a foundation of deceit.
FAQ 12: What is Siobhan Finneran Doing Now After Downton Abbey?
Since leaving Downton Abbey, Siobhan Finneran has enjoyed a successful career, appearing in numerous television series and films. She is known for her roles in shows like “Happy Valley,” “The Loch,” and “The Stranger,” showcasing her versatility and talent as an actress. She continues to be a respected and in-demand performer in the British entertainment industry.