2022 is set to be a great year for period drama fans – not only is Bridgerton returning, but so is Downton Abbey. That’s right, the Crawley family is back on the big screen, and it looks like all the original characters are set to feature.
The film’s title, Downton Abbey: A New Era, was revealed at CinemaCon in August 2021, alongside a teaser clip that was shown to attendees, which was said to feature cast favourites including Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, and Laura Charmichael.
And later, a post was shared on the drama’s official social media channels, reading: “A new era begins. The entire Downton cast is back for #DowntonAbbey: A New Era, with Hugh Dancy, Laura Haddock, Nathalie Baye and Dominic West joining. See the film only in theatres March 18, 2022.”
While the movie was originally set for release at Christmas, Deadline revealed in July that it would be pushed back three months – much to fan’s disappointment – after wrapping production in August 2021.
The wait might be a little longer, but there’s still plenty to look forward to, including a handful of new famous faces that will star in the movie, but will they be upstairs or downstairs?
Downton has revealed that Hugh Dancy, Laura Haddock, Nathalie Baye and Dominic West will appear in the film, though there were no further clues given on their characters.
As for the plot of A New Era, it’s all been very hush-hush, though rumours continue to circulate that there will be a death of a beloved character in the film (the Dowager Countess? Say it ain’t so!).
Deadline also reports that the teaser clip from the movie showed the Crawley family and Downton staff preparing for a big overseas trip, as well as what appeared to be a wedding scene. Intriguing.
And among the few words spoken? That comes down to beloved butler Mr Carson, who simply states, “The British are coming.” They are indeed…