It’s official – it’s time to return to Downton Abbey.
Almost three years after the period drama took a bow, it has been announced that the Dowager Countess and Co. will be making the jump to the big screen.
The long-rumoured feature film adaptation of Downton Abbey will officially begin production this summer, with the original cast expected to return.
A post on the TV series’ official account read:
“Welcome back to Downton! We’re thrilled to announce that
#DowntonAbbey is coming to the big screen. Film production begins this summer.”
Welcome back to Downton! We’re thrilled to announce that #DowntonAbbey is coming to the big screen. Film production begins this summer. pic.twitter.com/3scMUmosic
— Downton Abbey (@DowntonAbbey) July 13, 2018
According to TV Line, the movie was written by series creator Julian Fellowes. He will be one of the executive producers, alongside Gareth Neame, Liz Trubridge and Nigel Merchant.
Brian Percival, who directed the pilot, is set to direct.
Neame issued a statement, saying:
“When the television series drew to a close it was our dream to bring the millions of global fans a movie and now, after getting many stars aligned, we are shortly to go into production.
“Julian’s script charms, thrills and entertains and in Brian Percival’s hands we aim to deliver everything that one would hope for as Downtoncomes to the big screen.”
Focus Features chairman Peter Kujawski added:
“Since the series ended, fans of Downton have long been waiting for the Crawley family’s next chapter.
“We’re thrilled to join this incredible group of filmmakers, actors and craftspeople, led by Julian Fellowes and Gareth Neame, in bringing back the world of Downton to the big screen.”
