“Downton Abbey 3” (2025): A New Journey and a Special Tribute to Maggie Smith

Following the success of the first two films, “Downton Abbey 3” has been officially announced, with a scheduled release date of September 12, 2025. The film will continue the story of the Crawley family and their loyal servants at Downton Estate, set against the backdrop of early 1930s British society.

Watch the official trailer for Downton Abbey: A New Era (2022) here:

A Familiar Cast with New Additions

The film retains its main cast, including Hugh Bonneville (Robert Crawley), Laura Carmichael (Lady Edith), Jim Carter (Carson), Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary), Elizabeth McGovern (Cora Crawley), and Imelda Staunton (Maud Bagshaw).

Notably, Paul Giamatti will reprise his role as Harold Levinson, a character last seen in season four of the television series. Additionally, the film introduces new cast members, including Joely Richardson, Alessandro Nivola, Simon Russell Beale, and Arty Froushan, in undisclosed roles, adding intrigue and excitement to the storyline.

The 1930s Setting and Historical Transformations

“Downton Abbey 3” takes place in the early 1930s, a period marked by the Great Depression and significant global political shifts. The Crawley family must navigate societal changes, including the evolving roles of women, the decline of the traditional aristocracy, and economic challenges.

The film is directed by Simon Curtis, who previously helmed Downton Abbey: A New Era (2022), with the screenplay once again penned by Julian Fellowes, the creator of the franchise.

A Special Tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

One of the most poignant aspects of “Downton Abbey 3” is its special tribute to the late Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away in September 2024 at the age of 89. She was widely beloved for her role as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, one of the most iconic characters in the franchise.

Producers have confirmed that the film will delicately incorporate the passing of Violet Crawley into the storyline, serving as a heartfelt farewell to both the character and the legendary actress. According to the production team, this tribute will be “a meaningful and deeply emotional farewell.”

Production and Release

Filming began on May 13, 2024, and concluded in August 2024. The movie is produced by Gareth Neame, Julian Fellowes, and Liz Trubridge, with Focus Features handling distribution in both the UK and the US.

With the legacy of the previous films, a compelling story, and a heartfelt tribute to Dame Maggie Smith, “Downton Abbey 3” is expected to be an unforgettable emotional journey when it premieres in September 2025.