Hugh Bonneville has shared a heartfelt insight into how the upcoming Downton Abbey 3 will serve as a touching tribute to the late Dame Maggie Smith. Smith, who played Violet Crawley in the series and its two feature films, passed away at the age of 89 in September 2024. Downton Abbey 3 will be the final chapter for the franchise's beloved characters, bringing closure to the long-running saga, though exact story details remain unknown for the threequel that will release in September 2025.
In a recent interview with Virgin Radio UK (via Digital Spy), Bonneville – who plays Violet's son, Robert – spoke of the upcoming Downton Abbey 3, and how it pays tribute to the late icon. The film promises to be a proper send-off for the fans, as Bonneville emphasized how the film would bring closure to all the stories, and seemingly hinted at a conclusive fate for Smith's character. Read his full quote below:
We finished a third – and I think probably final – Downton Abbey film this summer, which will come out next September. That is a wonderful sort of closing off of all the stories, so it’s a proper film for the fans. It’s very much set in the house and saying goodbye to all these characters, and we obviously say goodbye to Dame Maggie, which was very poignant on screen and now in real life. She’ll be sorely missed. But the final film will obviously be a great lasting tribute to her.
What This Means For Downton Abbey 3
It Will Be An Emotional Tribute
The upcoming Downton Abbey 3 holds a lot of significance for franchise fans, not only as the final chapter of the beloved series, but also as a heartfelt tribute to Dame Smith's legacy. As the final installment, it provides an opportunity for closure, allowing the audience to reflect on the beloved characters that have evolved over time. The emotional weight of saying goodbye to the iconic Violet Crawley will definitively resonate with viewers, heightening the impact of the film and deepening the collective goodbye to the series.
Downton Abbey 3 will most likely take place during the Great Depression, which will heavily impact the Crawleys, their staff, and the home itself.
Although the late Dame Smith will not appear in the film, Violet Crawley's presence will likely be felt throughout. Violet's absence could create a moving storyline that centers on how the characters navigate their lives without her wisdom and presence. The movie might examine the legacy and impact she leaves behind, especially on her son Robert, who may struggle with the loss of his mother while trying to uphold her values. As the movie bids farewell to Violet and the rest of the beloved characters, the film has the potential to be an emotional farewell.
Our Take On The Upcoming Film
A Touching Goodbye
Downton Abbey 3 seems to promise a beautifully crafted finale to the long-standing series, embracing the nostalgia and memories that fans have treasured since its debut. By focusing the storyline on closure and reflection, the film has all it needs to deliver a powerful emotional punch, reminding the audience of the bonds created throughout the show's run. Furthermore, it will be a touching tribute to the late Dame Maggie Smith, who was a staple in many people's homes, from her iconic role as Violet Crawley, or her most beloved, Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series.
As the Crawley family navigates the 1930s, they face new challenges and opportunities. With Lady Mary taking on a leadership role after the passing of the Dowager Countess, the household is drawn into a series of social and political events that test their unity and resilience. New romances blossom while old relationships are put to the test, and secrets from the past resurface to haunt the present.
Director Simon Curtis
Release Date September 12, 2025
Writers Julian Fellowes
Cast Michelle Dockery , Joely Richardson , Paul Giamatti , Dominic West , Elizabeth McGovern , Hugh Bonneville , Joanne Froggatt , Allen Leech
English (US) ·