First, the good news. After many comments, the cast and producers all agreed that a sequel was likely and to be hoped for if the movie did well at the box office. The Downton Abbey movie has exceeded expectations this weekend at the US box office, heading for over $30million in its first three days alone. It has even trounced Sylvester Stallone’s much-anticipated Rambo 5 and Brad Pitt’s Ad Astra, both made with much higher budgets. The bad news is that when a Downton sequel arrives it will almost certainly include the death of one of the most beloved characters.
WARNING SPOILERS FOR THE DOWNTON ABBEY MOVIE FROM HERE.
At the very end of the film, Violet takes her favourite granddaughter Lady Mary to one side and gives her some terrible news.
The dowager countess reveals she has been to London for medical tests and she is dying, with not too long to live.
It seems inconceivable to imagine Downton Abbey without Violet’s waspish wit and impressive backbone holding it all together. Let alone, her endless sparring with Penelope Wilton’s Isobel.
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When he was asked about the sequel, Jim Carter (aka Mr Carson) painted a heartbreaking picture of how it would start.
He told PA: “‘If this goes down well and, let’s face it, makes lots of money, who knows?
“I know if there is a second one it will start with a funeral and people walking away very solemnly from a graveyard.”
The jovial 71-year-old star was actually suggesting there might be more than one death, adding: “There will be a panning shot along six headstones of those who weren’t available for the film and that is how it will start.”
While he is clearly joking, it now seems very likely the film will start with Violet’s death or will build towards it as the grand emotional finale.
A second film seems almost certain after the recent international success. Almost everyone involved in the current film gave the same reply when asked about a sequel.
Creator Julian Fellowes told Radio Times: “In the end, it’ll be very much down to how the film is received, if they like it and if they enjoy it. And if we feel there is an appetite for more, then – maybe.”
Allen Leech (Tom Branson) added: “Let’s see how this goes, and if the fans like it, I think that – these are such special characters and such a special thing to be part of, so yep.”
Tuppence Middleton, who joined the movie as brand-new character Lucy, said: “I had such a lovely time filming it. It was total joy. I suppose it depends on whether there’s appetite for it, if the fans feel they want to see more.”
Ahead of the opening, producer Gareth Neame said: “We’ve got some ideas of things we would explore… but it all depends on the next few days. It’s all about the fans and the audience — if they love this and watch it, well then, we’re out to do more.”
DOWNTON ABBEY IS OUT NOW IN UK AND US CINEMAS