Overview

• Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale opened in cinemas on Sept. 12 with the original ensemble returning.
• Set in the 1930s, the story centers on Lady Mary’s public scandal and mounting financial pressure that threatens the family’s hold on the estate.
• The movie is dedicated to Dame Maggie Smith, with Fellowes saying he wanted the third film to be “haunted” by her presence.
• Fellowes says this concludes the saga begun in 2010 for this generation, citing creative limits and cast readiness to stop, yet he remains open to prequels, spinoffs or a The Gilded Age crossover.
• Early audience reaction to the ending is divided on social media, while cast members including Michelle Dockery and Hugh Bonneville describe the send-off as a fitting farewell.