The upcoming third Downton Abbey film will pay tribute to Dame Maggie Smith, who portrayed Violet Crawley throughout the popular television series and films. Dame Maggie, who passed away in 2024 at age 89, had already completed filming her scenes prior to her death.
Hugh Bonneville, who plays Robert Crawley, recently discussed details about the upcoming film. He said the movie will serve as a “great lasting tribute” to Dame Maggie and her legacy within the Downton Abbey franchise. According to Bonneville, wrapping up all the character storylines in this final installment will give fans a “proper” conclusion.
The film is set to resume at Downton Abbey and will focus on saying goodbye to all the beloved characters, including a special farewell for Dame Maggie’s Violet Crawley. Producer Gareth Neame echoed that the film aims to honor one of its most important stars. Fellow producer Julian Fellowes wrote the screenplay to provide closure for the fans.
Most of the original starring cast is returning, such as Laura Carmichael, Phyllis Logan, Robert James-Collier, Jim Carter, and Michelle Dockery. A few new additions include Joely Richardson, Alessandro Nivola, Simon Russell Beale, and Arty Froushan.
After Dame Maggie’s passing, Michelle Dockery called her a “maverick” and said she felt lucky to know her. Hugh Bonneville praised her “sharp eye, sharp wit and formidable talent.”
Fans can expect satisfaction from this climactic chapter, which ties a bow on the beloved franchise that encompassed both a hit television series and previous blockbuster films. The Downton Abbey story comes to an emotional close that fittingly honors one of its most memorable stars.
