The upcoming Downton Abbey 3 will honor the legacy of Dame Maggie Smith, whose iconic portrayal of the Dowager Countess of Grantham became a hallmark of the series. According to executive producer Gareth Neame, the film will serve as a poignant tribute to the actress, whose passing has added deeper emotional weight to the story.
In an interview with TVLine, Neame revealed that the third installment, scheduled for release on September 12, 2025, would reflect the cast and crew’s immense respect for Smith. “We will never see the like of Dame Maggie Smith again,” Neame stated, emphasizing the profound impact she had on the show and its fans.
He further noted that the film’s storyline, which had already planned for the loss of the Dowager Countess, has taken on a new significance following Smith’s death. “The loss of the Dowager now feels far more significant, not just for the family within the story, but for the cast and crew mourning the matriarch of the show,” Neame said. “It adds a level of authenticity and emotion that we hadn’t anticipated.”
Downton Abbey 3, directed by Simon Curtis, wrapped production earlier this year. The film, written by Julian Fellowes, the series’ creator, will feature the return of key cast members including Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, and Laura Carmichael, among others. The film’s producers include Fellowes, Neame, and Liz Trubridge, an Emmy-winning producer.
The film will continue the story after the events of Downton Abbey: A New Era (2022), where Smith’s character, the Dowager Countess, passed away. The beloved actress died on September 27, 2023, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that transcended Downton Abbey. Smith was a three-time Primetime Emmy Award winner for her role as Violet Crawley, and her influence on the show remains a defining aspect of its success.
Fans of the series and the actress can expect a heartfelt and meaningful tribute in the upcoming film.
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