The iconic series concluded with its sixth season in 2015. Audiences were eagerly left awaiting more of the Crawley family’s aristocratic drama.
Following the success of two film spin-offs in 2019 and 2022, speculation has been rife about the possibility of a revival. And now, it seems those hopes are being realised.
According to sources cited by the Daily Mail, plans for the new series are in motion. Key cast members are set to return, including Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, and Joanne Froggatt.
Return to Highclere Castle
Not all details have been confirmed.However, filming has reportedly commenced at Highclere Castle in Hampshire.
Actress Michelle Dockery had said it felt strange returning to Highclere to film the movies.
“When we completed filming at Highclere Castle, after the final series, the sadness swept over me,” she admits.
“It was profound. It really felt like we were giving the house back to the owners and it was the final time we would ever get to enjoy it. It was an emotional ride but I suppose we always hoped there might be something more.
Credit: Ben Blackall / © 2021 Focus Features, LLC
Greatly Beloved
The news of the revival comes as no surprise to avid followers. Creator Julian Fellowes’ recently remarked about the show’s potential comeback. Fellowes hinted at the possibility during an interview with RadioTimes.com.
“I have said goodbye to Downton so many times, and I have written the last scene about six or seven times,” he said. “Now I’ve got out of the habit of making permanent statements about whether it’s gone.
“It just gives me a lot of pleasure that so many people enjoyed it, so to feel that you created a show that cheers people up and they had a good time with it, I love that.”
