Summary

• "Downton Abbey 3" was officially confirmed by Imelda Staunton to be the final film; filming begins in May 2024.
• The sequel to "A New Era" could be set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1930s.
• Most of the principal cast members are expected to return for "Downton Abbey 3," with Imelda Staunton the first confirmed.

Following the smashing success of Downton Abbey: A New Era, speculation has abounded about Downton Abbey 3, and now the highly-anticipated third film is officially on the way. 2022's A New Era reunited series creator Julian Fellowes with nearly the entire principal cast and The Downton Abbey movie series has continued the saga of the Crawley family and their servants after 6 hit TV seasons. The possibility for more was always on the table, and now a trilogy-capping third film can finally complete the beloved series.

Downton Abbey: A New Era broadened the scope of the saga's world while successfully juggling over 30 beloved characters and multiple storylines. The sequel also marked seismic changes and new beginnings for the Crawleys, who are on the cusp of entering the "modern world" of the 1930s. Now that the "New Era" has begun, the timeline of Downton Abbey can press further into the 20th century, which opens the door for any number of exciting storylines. Downton Abbey 3 is possibly the conclusion of the entire franchise, a momentous but sad time for fans of the series.

Downton Abbey 3 Latest News

The Third & Final Film Is Confirmed

Though news has been scant since A New Era's blockbuster success, the latest update confirms Downton Abbey 3. While speaking in a recent interview, series star Imelda Staunton let slip that Downton Abbey 3 is in the works and that it will allegedly be the final film. Staunton, who plays Lady Bagshaw in the film series, was not authorized to reveal the film, and no one else involved has confirmed her claims yet. However, considering her closeness to the production, it is more than likely true. Staunton also revealed it will begin filming in May 2024, and conclude in July.

Stream Downton Abbey: A New Era on Starz.

Downton Abbey 3 Is Confirmed

The Crawleys Will Return Again

Despite fan encouragement to continue the series, producer Julian Fellowes seemed content to allow the franchise to go out on a high note with A New Era's release in 2022 (via Sky News). However, sequel rumblings began not long after the film's successful run at the box office, and Downton Abbey 3 was eventually confirmed in March 2024. At this juncture, details are still scant regarding the supposed final film in the nearly decade-and-a-half-long franchise.

Downton Abbey 3 Production Status

The Threequel Films In May 2024

While the release date and many other details are still unknown about Downton Abbey 3, Imelda Staunton's revelation regarding the film did reveal its production timeline. Staunton explained that the project would begin filming in May 2024, and was expected to conclude a few months later in July. This truncated filming schedule means Downton Abbey 3 could arrive by Christmas 2024 and could capitalize on the franchise's box office potential around the holiday season.

Downton Abbey 3 Cast

Who Might Return In The Third Movie?

The Downton Abbey cast has returned consistently, and they will likely all return for Downton Abbey 3. The major exception would be Maggie Smith, who finally closed the book on the Dowager Countess in A New Era. Meanwhile, Matthew Goode was unable to reprise Mary's husband Henry Talbot, but there's a chance he could still come back. Downton's fans also clamor for Lily James to return as Lady Rose, and she could finally come back in Downton Abbey 3. Imelda Staunton's Lady Bagshaw is the only confirmed cast member since she was the one who revealed the sequel was happening.

A list of the most likely returns includes:

Downton Abbey 3 Story

What Can Happen In The Final Film

There are certainly many possibilities for Downton Abbey to continue from where A New Era leaves the story. Although A New Era finally says goodbye to Maggie Smith's Lady Violet, the Crawleys welcome new members to the family in Tom Branson's new bride, Lucy, and their newborn baby. Meanwhile, Thomas Barrow left his position as Downton's butler, which means Mr. Carson must return to train Andy Parker to take his place.

Most interestingly, the film can also be set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1930s where economic turmoil and the outbreak of another World War could serve as bookends for the franchise. Downton Abbey's first season involved the dark early days of WWI, and it is fitting that Downton Abbey 3 could usher in the beginning of WWII. Since the early part of the 20th century is the time period for the franchise, it seems appropriate to end the series where the early 20th century also ended.