DOWNTON ABBEY Creator Julian Fellowes Teases the Possibility of a Third Movie

The Downton Abbey franchise has pulled in a huge dedicated fanbase over the years who has loved to see the franchise continue in movies after its six season run. The second film opens this week, and while fans were pleasantly surprised to see it get developed, the show’s creator, Julian Fellowes, is now even teasing a possible third film!

Fellowes talked to Variety on Sunday at the New York premiere at the Metropolitan Opera House, first addressing why he moved the franchise to films, versus series, saying:

“I think the cast particularly had enough of working from February to November, whereas a film is eight weeks out of their lives every two and a half years. It’s a different commitment. They have these very successful careers and wanted to get back to them. That seems fair enough to me.”

When asked about completing the Downton Abbey trilogy, Fellowes said that the fans will say whether a third film should get made by their reception of this second installment. “Well, I wouldn’t tell you if I knew,” Fellowes said with a chuckle. “It’s the audience that tells you that.”

Phyllis Logan, who plays housekeeper Mrs. Hughes, praised the film for how it balanced the dramatic reveals with some comedic moments. She explained:

“It’s laugh-out-loud funny, and it’s very poignant and moving as well. It’s just a lovely, feel-good film where you come out smiling with a tear in your eye at the same time. I think it’s it’s just a perfect antidote to what the world’s had to endure.”

Many of the cast members on the carpet also teased the possibility of a third theatrical chapter that would serve as a bookend to a film trilogy. Logan added:

“Wouldn’t it be nice to make it a trio? It’s like voting. Vote early with your feet by going to see this movie.”

Kevin Doyle, who plays footman Joseph Molesley, teased that he’d be happy to read another new chapter written by Fellowes, saying:

“Julian always surprises us with the way he can come up with these extraordinary stories to bring us back together again. If there is going to be another episode, I look forward to reading it.”

I know fans would show up for another Downton Abbey movie! I hope it does happen, and I’ll be showing my support for Downton Abbey: A New Era when it hits theaters this week.