'Downton Abbey' will continue to air delayed in the US despite spoilers

PBS' chief executive says she's sticking with airing "Downtown Abbey" after it shows in Britain, spoilers or not.

Paula Kerger said Tuesday the period drama has drawn record ratings for PBS, and the public TV service doesn't want to tinker with success.

"Downtown Abbey," which will be entering its fourth season, has been airing in the United States after its U.K. season concludes, allowing plot twists to spill online.

But Kerger says word-of-mouth from the British airing helps create buzz and promotion for the U.S. airing.

"Downtown Abbey" will begin its new season on PBS on Jan. 5.