The upcoming Downton Abbey movie has officially begun production. The series was one of television’s most popular period dramas in recent years, and even though it has ended its run on television, a movie continuing the beloved British characters’ storylines is moving forward to give fans one last glimpse into the refined Edwardian world of Downton Abbey.

The series - which followed the lives and events of the Crawley family, as well as their servants, over the course of the early 20th century in rural England - concluded with a sixth season in 2016. During its time on TV, Downton Abbey drew the attention of viewers at home and critics alike, and it went down as the most nominated non-US television show in the history of the Emmys. Almost two years after the series ended, it was announced that a movie was going to be produced by Carnival Films so that fans could rejoin the Downton characters’ lives one last time.

Though there have been some delays since the initial announcement of the Downton Abbey movie, the project has now finally begun production, according to Focus Features. Gareth Neame, Carnival’s Executive Chairman and the film’s producer said, “We are excited that photography is about to start on the long awaited film and that the beloved main characters will be joined by such exceptional actors playing new roles unique to the movie.”


Earlier this summer, it was confirmed that the series’ original cast will return for the film, including key stars such as Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, and Laura Carmichael. However, as Focus Features revealed in the press release, there will now be some new players in the mix as well. Simon Jones, Kate Phillips, David Haig, and Tuppence Middleton are some of the few actors who will be joining the original Downton Abbey cast to bring fans a brand new story. Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes wrote the movie's script and will be producing the adaptation alongside Gareth Neame and Liz Trubridge, with Brian Percival returning to executive produce.

Even though the series was a British production, Downton Abbey had a strong American following thanks to the fact that it aired on PBS. The show’s announced departure in 2015 was a large blow to US fans, who found unrivaled drama in Downton Abbey. Many found Downton’s characters to be refined yet tragic like no others on television, at least for a period drama. There’s no doubt the movie will be a hit, as dedicated Downton Abbey viewers will now be able to see their favorite characters hit the big screen.

The Downton Abbey movie does not currently have a release date.