Hugh Bonneville has offered a poignant and heartfelt glimpse behind the scenes of the beloved period drama's cinematic farewell, revealing that the project transformed into an emotional homage to its legendary star.
In an exclusive interview, the actor, who portrays the steadfast Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham, disclosed that the upcoming final Downton Abbey movie evolved into a 'de facto tribute' to the incomparable Dame Maggie Smith, following her passing.
Bonneville gushed about the late actress's enduring legacy, confessing that her formidable presence was deeply felt throughout the entire production. He movingly described how her spirit 'loomed over the film like a portrait in the hall', a testament to the profound and indelible mark she left on the global phenomenon.
The actor's touching words highlight the deep bond between the cast members and the irreplaceable role Dame Maggie played, not just as the sharp-witted Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, but as the heart and soul of the entire Downton universe.
This final chapter promises to be a bittersweet and fitting celebration of her extraordinary talent, ensuring her memory is woven into the very fabric of the film that millions of fans are eagerly awaiting.
