All original Downton cast to return for sequel along with new cast members, Focus Features confirms.
Production has begun on Downton Abbey 2 it has been confirmed, with the sequel due to hit cinemas for Christmas 2021.
The original principal cast will all return for the second film – which began production last week, Focus Features confirmed. It is due to be released on 22 December, 2021.
In addition, four new cast members will join – Hugh Dancy, Laura Haddock, Nathalie Baye and Dominic West.
Downton creator, Julian Fellowes will once again write the film’s screenplay.
The initial film followed a Royal visit to the Crawley family and Downton staff from the King and Queen of England and ended with a ball fitting for the Royal Family.
“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 re-united with the much beloved characters of Downton Abbey,” commented Gareth Neame, the film’s producer and executive chairman of Carnival Films (which is part of NBCUniversal International Studios).
Focus Features’ chairman Peter Kujawski added: “There’s no place like home for the holidays, and we can’t imagine a better gift than getting to reunite with Julian, Gareth, and the entire Downton family in 2021 to bring the Crawley’s back home for their fans.”
Downton Abbey boasts a successful licensing programme across a number of territories.
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