The cast of Downton Abbey is reuniting for a farewell documentary titled Farewell Downton Abbey, but the news has sparked outrage among fans who will need a streaming subscription to watch it. The documentary, produced by Monkey Kingdom, will feature exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the third and final film, interviews with the cast, and tributes from members of the public.
Unlike the original series, which aired on ITV, the documentary will not be broadcast on terrestrial television. Instead, it is expected to be snapped up by a streaming giant such as Netflix or Prime Video, prompting fears that loyal viewers will be priced out. A TV insider told The Sun: “This will be bittersweet news for all the people who would be thrilled at the prospect of seeing all the stars of Downton Abbey coming together one last time.”
“Because it means there’s likely to be a bidding war between the streamers to get this, probably Netflix, who currently show all the TV episodes, and Prime Video, who have the first two movies,” the insider added. “With the release of the third film it’s ‘Goodbye Downton Abbey’. But not everyone is going to be able to take part in that, as only those who have the right subscription will be able to see it.”
The documentary is expected to drop around the same time as the final film, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, which is due in September. Returning stars include Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern as Lord and Lady Grantham, Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley, and Jim Carter as Mr Carson. The series originally aired from 2010 to 2015.
For millions of British fans, the streaming-only release has caused frustration, as many will need to pay for a subscription just to see the farewell. The final film promises to wrap up the Crawley family story with emotional goodbyes and a last look inside Highclere Castle.
