Guinness World Records named Downton Abbey the most critically acclaimed English-language TV series of 2011.
The record reflected the show's exceptional critical reception during its first series. Metacritic gave that season an average score of 91 out of 100 from 16 reviews, classifying it as receiving near-universal acclaim. Guinness described the achievement as the highest critical review ratings for a television show.
The year can cause confusion because Downton Abbey premiered in the United Kingdom on 26 September 2010. Its American PBS debut came in January 2011, and the Guinness recognition was associated with the 2011 television year. The series later became an international hit, earning major Emmy and Golden Globe recognition.
Another common mix-up is assuming the record lasted permanently. Breaking Bad's fourth season later achieved a higher Metacritic score, but that does not change Downton Abbey's 2011 record.