Susan Sarandon to host 'Downton Abbey' special

ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Susan Sarandon will serve as host of a "Downton Abbey" re-cap special to air before the U.K. costume drama's fourth U.S. season premiere, PBS announced.

"Return to Downton Abbey," featuring highlights from the beloved show's first three seasons, is to air Dec. 1. The program includes a mix of behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with creators and cast members, and video clips of favorite moments.

Season 4 is to premiere in the United States Jan. 5. It is currently airing in the United Kingdom.

"We invite viewers to dive back into the Roaring Twenties as excitement for the new season continues to grow," Beth Hoppe, chief programming executive and general manager of general audience programming for PBS, said in a statement Thursday. "This special shines a light on the most compelling aspects of 'Downton Abbey' and previews the intriguing things to come."

"Downton Abbey" follows the wealthy Crawley family and those who serve them at their country estate.