Good news, ‘Downton Abbey‘ fans! It’s time to dust off your best china and rewatch the older episodes once more because your favorite show is making its way back to television. And no, we’re not talking about the final grand finale film.
For over a decade now, ‘Downton Abbey‘ has pulled audiences into the aristocratic drama. Now, on the brink of a major farewell, the show is finding a way to step back onto television screens one more (last) time. But before you get your hopes too high, hold on to your horses and let us explain.
‘Downton Abbey’ Returns To TV With A Twist!
The news comes from NBC and Peacock, who’ve lined up something special for ‘Downton Abbey‘ fans. Even though it looks like a reunion, the primetime TV event gives viewers one last brush before the franchise bows out on the big screen. You can think of it as part look-back, part celebration, and part farewell.
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Titled ‘Downton Abbey Celebrates The Grand Finale,’ the special aired on September 10 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, while Peacock streams it the very next day. As the ‘Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale’ opens in theatres on September 12, the special hits television just two days before. More like, how appetizers come in before the full-course meal!
‘Downton Abbey Celebrates The Grand Finale’ Details
It’s a given that no reunion special will be successful if the OG cast doesn’t show up. And it seems like we won’t be disappointed. Word is, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter, Joanne Froggatt, Allen Leech, Phyllis Logan, Sophie McShera, Lesley Nicol, and Penelope Wilton will turn up. The list won’t be complete without Donal Woods, Anna Mary Scott Robbins, and John Lunn, as they are the people who built the look and sound of Downton.
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Of course, any reunion like this comes with a bittersweet note. The special won’t include Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away in September 2024. As Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess, Smith became the undisputed scene-stealer of the series. On the bright side, rumors about a potential prequel focusing on a young Violet Crawley have picked up steam. However, there’s no official confirmation yet on it.
For other actors, too, the reunion is an emotional one. Joanne Froggatt has admitted that she broke down in tears watching the final film, calling it “a full-circle moment.” The best part? It’s all happening at London’s Savoy Hotel. It seems the franchise wanted to ensure its final goodbye took place in the very space where it all began, the living room. Now, it’s time to keep your tissues ready. After fifteen years, the Crawleys are saying goodbye. And they’re doing it in style!
