Julian Fellowes Finishes ‘Downton Abbey’ Movie Script

Julian Fellowes has finished the script for the Downton Abbey movie.

Joanne Froggatt – who portrayed Anna Smith in the period drama for five years – has revealed the creator has penned the script for the forthcoming blockbuster but none of the cast have seen it or been approached about starring in the film just yet.

Speaking on This Morning last Thursday, she said: “We’ve all heard this rumor – the cast – that the script has been written. There’s a hard copy somewhere but none of us have seen it or know what’s in it. So we’ll all keep our fingers crossed that it all comes together. We’re all willing it to happen. I’d absolutely jump at the chance to star in it if I’m asked. I’ll squeeze it in.”

However, although the script is still a mystery, Michael Fox – who portrayed Andy Parker in the series – confirmed that Dame Maggie Smith will reprise her role as Violet Crawley when the blockbuster eventually hits the big screen sometime in the future.

He said recently: “She elevates it to something else, because she is such a legend and a national treasure. The film without her would still be good with all the other actors, but it puts a stamp of quality with her in it.”

Viewers were thrown into mourning last Christmas when Downton Abbey came to a dramatic end following five years on screen but creator Julian has always shared his burning desire to turn the drama into a film one day.

However, the 67-year-old director hinted that he was waiting on vital cast members – believed to be Hugh Bonneville and Michelle Dockery – to free up their schedules.

He said recently: “Let’s just say it’s not me slowing things down. The difficulty is rounding up the actors. One is in America making a new series, another is in a play … My lips are sealed! It’s very unlikely there won’t be a film because there is an audience out there for it. I do hope there is going to be a ‘Downton Abbey’ film. It’s going to be fun once everything is sorted but we just need to restructure it.”

It’s believed filming for the movie will kick off next year.