As the American mother of Lady Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), Oscar-winning actress Shirley MacLaine promises to bring a jolt to "Downton Abbey" when new episodes air on PBS early next year, reports TV Guide.

MacLaine told the publication about her character, saying: “She is from Long Island and finally lands at Downton Abbey and sees what’s happening to the place when everyone’s coming back from the war. … I do my best to be kind to tradition, but frankly think it should shift."

This Thursday, June 7, MacLaine will be honored with the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award in a ceremony that will then air June 24 at 9 p.m. on TV Land.