'Downton Abbey'-inspired episode of 'Arthur' to air on PBS

ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 8 (UPI) -- PBS Kids has announced plans to air Fountain Abbey, an all-new, Downton Abbey-inspired episode of Arthur, Jan. 26.

The animated program will also be available on DVD Jan. 27 through PBS Distribution. The 1920s-set, British costume drama Downton Abbey is now in its fifth season on PBS.

"An abbey in jeopardy, a lady's maid causing trouble, and the Dowager Countess unimpressed by all. Sound familiar? We hope Fountain Abbey will be a show the whole family can enjoy together!" Carol Greenwald, senior executive producer of Arthur, said in a statement Thursday.

"PBS is committed to engaging families with content that is educational and entertaining and this new episode of Arthur is no exception. Fountain Abbey promises to delight not only children, but an entire generation of Arthur fans that grew up with the series and can appreciate the humor and fun of the Downton Abbey-inspired references," added Lesli Rotenberg, PBS' general manager of children's media.