Actress Maggie Smith, known for her role as Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey, reportedly found it a relief to bid farewell to her character. Producer Gareth Neame shared that Smith often expressed a desire to be written off the show due to the taxing nature of her role. Smith starred in all six seasons of the period drama from 2010 to 2015, and later appeared in the spinoff films Downton Abbey and Downton Abbey: A New Era.
In the latest film, Downton Abbey: A New Era, Violet's storyline concludes with her passing away due to health issues, marking the end of Smith's involvement in the franchise. Neame acknowledged the demanding filming schedule of the series, which led to the transition to movie formats to accommodate the cast's desire for flexibility.
While Smith has moved on to other projects, including the 2023 film The Miracle Club, her absence is notable in the upcoming third installment of the Downton Abbey film series. The third film, set to release on September 12, 2025, will see the return of several original cast members, such as Michelle Dockery, Hugh Bonneville, and Elizabeth McGovern, among others.
The announcement of the new film generated excitement among fans and cast members alike, with Dockery expressing joy at reuniting with the ensemble. The upcoming installment promises to continue the legacy of the beloved Downton Abbey series, offering a nostalgic reunion for both the actors and the audience.
