With Season 6 being its last, fans of the show, which have ran for over half a decade cannot wait for "Downtown Abbey" to become a movie already. While nothing has been set in stone yet, there are already enough rumors to hint at the fans of what to expect from the "Downtown Abbey" film. Dame Maggie Smith's decision not to be part of it made show bosses rethink the movie's plot and storyline.
Daily Mail UK reported that because Maggie Smith decided not to return for a "Downtown Abbey" follow-up movie, show bosses decided to set the full-length film ten years after the last episode of the ITV period drama. This way, Smith's character need not be in the movie and presumed dead.
The veteran actress' portrayal of the Dowager Countess of Grantham was so good that it became a fan favorite easily since the TV show started airing in 2010. Smith's decision not to be part of the big screen adaptation was a severe letdown for many. However, the movie has to happen even without the actress and the showrunners thought of the best way to do so.
Speaking with Sunday Mirror, a source shared that Smith's decision not to participate in the movie was a dilemma at first. "'Maggie Smith's decision not to be part of it caused a dilemma, so the plan is now to leap forwards in time far enough for her character to have passed away," the source said. "Instead, the script would focus on younger members of the Grantham family, like Lady Mary, played by Michelle Dockery," the source added.
Because the last TV episode, a 2015 Christmas special, was set in 1925, the movie would have a storyline around 1935. A "Downtown Abbey" representative is yet to confirm this.
Show producer Gareth Neame also told Deadline that a lot can still happen because nothing is definite yet. "We've had some conversations about it," he said. "There is no script and no firm plan, but it's certainly something there is talk of; we're not in denial about anything. We'll know more next year," he added.
In a related news, fans of the TV series and soon to be movie can get to experience more of the beloved family in a brand new interactive game. The game is called, "Downtown Abbey: Mysteries of Manor." Those interested can just download the game to their devices, no matter if they have Apple, Android, or Fire devices. The game is free, making it accessible to all fans around the world. Those who will get the game can experience monthly updates.
