The Granthams are preparing to bid farewell to the beloved “Downton Abbey” universe. Focus Features has unveiled the first trailer for “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale,” which serves as the third installment in the film series and a highly anticipated conclusion to the narrative that originated with the ITV series in 2010.
Set in the year 1930, “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” centers around Lady Mary, portrayed by Michelle Dockery, as she traverses the complexities of London high society. Meanwhile, Lord and Lady Grantham, played by Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern, continue to manage their grand estate in Yorkshire.
This film not only wraps up the “Downton Abbey” trilogy but also marks the culmination of the franchise’s impressive 15-year journey, which has included six successful seasons of the television series. Simon Curtis, who directed “Downton Abbey: A New Era,” returns to direct this concluding chapter, with the screenplay crafted by series creator and executive producer Julian Fellowes.
The film features an ensemble cast that includes fan-favorites such as Jim Carter, Brendan Coyle, Joanne Froggatt, Phyllis Logan, Penelope Wilton, Paul Giamatti, and Dominic West. New additions to the cast include Joely Richardson, Alessandro Nivola, Simon Russell Beale, and Arty Froushan, promising to bring fresh dynamics to the beloved story.
The initial footage from “The Grand Finale” was showcased at CinemaCon in April, as part of Universal’s presentation to theater owners. The franchise successfully made its transition to film with the original movie in 2019, followed by “A New Era” in 2022, both of which performed well at the box office, with the first film earning $194 million globally.
“Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” is set to hit theaters on September 12, offering fans a nostalgic return to the world they have cherished for over a decade. The anticipation surrounding the film highlights the timeless appeal of the series and its characters.
The film represents not just a closure to a beloved franchise, but also an opportunity for fans to celebrate the rich storytelling and character development that has defined “Downton Abbey.”