A new Downton Abbey movie is headed to theaters: here's what we know, so far

The drama isn't quite over yet

Created by Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes (Gosford Park), “Downton Abbey” depicts the lives of the noble Crawley family and the staff who serve them, set at their Edwardian country house in 1912.
(Image credit: MASTERPIECE)

Downton Abbey is not finished yet! The hit TV series is headed to the big screen once again. The 2019 film adaptation was such a success that they couldn't resist creating another one. 

While we anxiously await the premiere, here are all the details we know, so far.

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When is it coming out?

As an early Christmas gift, the movie will hit the theaters on December 22. It's also been reported that creator Julian Fellows will write and produce the movie alongside Gareth Neame and Liz Trubridge (Simon Curtis is also set to come back and direct the sequel). 

Is the original cast returing?

Outlets have reported that the period drama is set to start production this month and will feature original cast members including Hugh Bonneville, Jim Carter, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, Maggie Smith, Imelda Staunton, and Penelope Wilton. As excited as we are to see familiar faces returning, we can also look forward to some new members joining the Downton Abbey family such as Hugh Dancy, Laura Haddock, Nathalie Baye, and Dominic West.

The official Downton Abbey even confirmed the casting on Twitter making all our Downton dreams come true.

"We're thrilled to announce that Julian Fellowes and the entire Downton cast are back for #DowntonAbbey2, with Hugh Dancy, Laura Haddock, Nathalie Baye, and Dominic West joining!" it announced.

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While 2020 put a halt on movie production, Gareth is excited for the opportunity to reunite for a sequel. 

"After a very challenging year with so many of us separated from family and friends, it is a huge comfort to think that better times are ahead and that next Christmas we will be reunited with the much-beloved characters of Downton Abbey," he said in a release.

Rylee Johnston

Rylee is a U.S. news writer who previously worked for woman&home and My Imperfect Life covering lifestyle, celebrity, and fashion news. Before joining woman&home and My Imperfect Life, Rylee studied journalism at Hofstra University where she explored her interests in world politics and magazine writing. From there, she dabbled in freelance writing covering fashion and beauty e-commerce for outlets such as the TODAY show, American Spa Magazine, First for Women, and Woman’s World.