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Hugh Bonneville says Downton Abbey 3 will be a “lasting tribute” to Maggie Smith

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As a gamer with a soft spot for period dramas and a deep affection for Downton Abbey, I must admit that the news of the third film serving as a “lasting tribute” to the late, great Dame Maggie Smith left me both saddened and excited. Having grown up watching her portray Violet Crawley, it feels like losing a dear friend. Yet, knowing that her character will grace our screens one last time brings a glimmer of hope in these bittersweet moments.

Hugh Bonneville discusses the upcoming third movie in the Downton Abbey series, mentioning it will serve as an enduring tribute to the late Dame Maggie Smith.

I, being a gamer, was saddened to learn that Dame Jessica Fellowes, famously known as Violet Crawley from Downton Abbey, took her final bow at 89 last month (September 27). Her fellow cast members have been expressing their heartfelt tributes following this sorrowful news.

Smith passed away following the completion of filming for the third Downton Abbey movie. In an interview with Virgin Radio UK, Bonneville (who portrays Violet’s son, Robert) mentioned that the film will honor the deceased cast member.

Hugh Bonneville says Downton Abbey 3 will be a "lasting tribute" to Maggie Smith

Bonneville shared that we completed what seems to be our last Downton Abbey movie during the summer, and it’s set to release in September. This feels like an excellent conclusion to all the tales, making it a fitting film for our dedicated fans.

The story is deeply rooted within the house, and as we bid farewell to these characters, it’s particularly heartfelt, especially with Dame Maggie’s departure. It was emotional on-screen, and now off-screen too. She will be dearly missed. However, the final movie promises to serve as an enduring tribute to her.

Previously, Bonneville, known for his role in the Paddington series, paid tribute to his on-screen partner following her demise. He expressed: “Anyone who worked alongside Maggie can vouch for her keen eye, quick wit, and remarkable acting skills.

Hugh Bonneville says Downton Abbey 3 will be a "lasting tribute" to Maggie Smith

She was an extraordinary figure of her time, and fortunately, her incredible film roles will endure. I extend my sympathies to her sons and extended family.” Dan Stevens, who portrayed Matthew Crawley, went on to say she was ‘one of the greatest.’

Michelle Dockery, the actress portraying Mary Crawley, similarly expressed fondness and reminiscence in her own words: “Maggie was one-of-a-kind. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have known such a trailblazer. She will be profoundly missed, and my thoughts are with her loved ones.

You can now purchase Downton Abbey: A New Era for home viewing as a digital download. Mark your calendars for September 12, 2025, when the third movie will hit theaters.

Read more Downton Abbey news on our dedicated homepage

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2024-11-01 02:18

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