The cast and creator of Downton Abbey have shared behind-the-scenes secrets ahead of the release of the third and final film, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale. The film, set in 1930, follows the Crawley family and their staff as they face financial trouble, social disgrace, and a public scandal involving Lady Mary's divorce. The film hits cinemas on September 12.
Creator Julian Fellowes explained why he brought the cast back for a third film: 'At the end of the second film, we said goodbye to the beloved Violet. We wanted to make the point that this may be the end of a family member, but it wasn't the end of the family.' He added that families like the Crawleys had to 'redefine themselves' to survive in the modern world.
Fellowes also reflected on the show's enduring global popularity, noting that period drama was considered 'dead' when the series began in 2010. He credited the cast, including Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, and Jim Carter, for attracting top guest stars. 'The American audience changed everything,' he said, leading to worldwide success.
Hugh Bonneville, who plays Lord Grantham, discussed his character's reluctance to hand over the estate to Lady Mary. 'He realises that his principal function in life has been maintaining the status quo at Downton Abbey. It begs the question what will his purpose be thereafter?' Bonneville said, comparing it to retirement.
The cast emphasised the show's legacy of compassion and doing the right thing. 'The feedback we've all had over the years... makes us all very proud,' they said. The film includes scenes set at 'Ascot,' though they were actually shot at another racecourse.
