I’m Getting More Bullish About A Gilded Age Crossover As Downton Abbey 3 Prepares For Its Grand Finale

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In simpler terms, it was disappointing when longtime producer of “Downton Abbey,” Gareth Neame, expressed doubts about a crossover between the original British series and its American counterpart, “The Gilded Age.” However, the creator of both shows, Julian Fellowes, has often maintained an optimistic attitude (“never say never”), and with Season 4 of “The Gilded Age” on the horizon and plans for a third “Downton Abbey” movie, the possibility of a crossover is being revisited.

During an interview prior to the 2025 movie release, Fellowes was once again questioned about the potential for a collaboration between the two projects. This time, he provided some insight as to why such a crossover might be feasible, although he clarified that no formal announcements have been made on this matter (as reported by TV Line).

Indeed, it seems there’s potential for a collaboration since they are both based in England. Various events such as the shooting season or similar occasions could serve as a backdrop, allowing numerous grand estates to feature for all these families. We can certainly introduce a connection whenever we deem fitting, yet at this point, no such plan has been established, so we’ll need to wait and see.

Spoilers ahead if you plan to watch The Gilded Age Season 3.

In Season 3 of “The Gilded Age,” Bertha, played by Carrie Coon, fulfilled her desire and married off her innocent daughter Gladys to a Duke, making Gladys a duchess. However, this event caused troubles in Bertha’s own marriage. Gladys then journeyed to England, where she ended the latest season pregnant. As Fellowes suggests, if the show decides to connect with Downton Abbey in the future, there could be opportunities for character, family, or location overlaps when Season 4 begins.

Fellowes himself acknowledges that aligning HBO and Focus Features could be the most challenging part. Previously, when Gareth Neame discussed this possibility, he hinted at the potential for crossover. He stated that Dame Maggie Smith’s character, who was alive during the time period in which The Gilded Age is set (and famously pursued by a Russian in St. Petersburg), might have been there, but at the time, no plans were made for her involvement.

In simpler terms, both Downton Abbey and the other fictional universe share a common setting – the 1880s – yet they exist independently in their own imaginary worlds. Within Downton Abbey’s storyline, an older version of the Maggie Smith character was indeed central, but there’s no plot or plan for a younger version to be introduced.

As a devoted movie buff, I can’t help but reminisce about the captivating moments from way back in Season 1. Fast forward to now, we’re diving headfirst into Season 4! With more episodes to unravel, there’s a tantalizing opportunity for some intriguing easter eggs and homages to resurface. I sense that the fan community is eagerly anticipating these hints, and I, for one, can hardly wait to see them unfold!

It seems unlikely that there will be any connection between the new movie and previous works, as the trailer for Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale suggests it is set in the 1930s, which is about fifty years after the events depicted in The Gilded Age. However, I remain eager for Julian Fellowes’ upcoming projects, even though Maggie Smith, a beloved cast member, has passed away. I am curious to see how the original series will conclude and how this will impact future productions.

Tickets for the final episode of Downton Abbey, titled “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale,” are now available for purchase. If you’d like to get up to speed on the series, check out the latest offering from Focus Features in their video collection.

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2025-08-22 20:08