9.6M tuned in for U.S. finale of 'Downton Abbey'

ARLINGTON, Va., March 8 (UPI) -- About 9.6 million viewers in the United States tuned in for Sunday's series finale of the beloved costume drama Downton Abbey, PBS and WGBH announced Tuesday.

"These six seasons of Downton Abbey have truly been a fantastic ride for all of us in the public television family," PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger said in a statement.

"A sincere thank you to Carnival Films, Masterpiece, Gareth Neame and Julian Fellowes, and all of our member stations for their part in this tremendous success. Most of all, thank you to all of the loyal viewers whose enthusiasm and engagement with the show made Downton Abbey a global sensation."

"It's incredibly hard to say good-bye to a show that has brought so much pleasure to so many people," added Masterpiece executive producer Rebecca Eaton. "A huge thanks to everyone at Downton -- upstairs and downstairs, on-screen and behind-the-scenes. You've given us a historic piece of television. And, American viewers, please rest assured that, even after the sun sets on Downton Abbey, Masterpiece will continue to shine on with the very best of British drama!"