Directed by Simon Curtis
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is scheduled for release in theaters on September 12, 2025.
Distributed by Focus Features.
Movie Review
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (2025) is set to be the final chapter in the beloved Downton Abbey series.
Directed by Simon Curtis and written by Julian Fellowes, the film promises to deliver a fitting conclusion with returning favorites like Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, and Jim Carter, alongside new faces such as Alessandro Nivola and Joely Richardson.
Expect heartfelt drama, new storylines, and emotional moments as the Crawley family and their staff face new challenges.
The movie aims to provide closure for long-time fans while offering a captivating cinematic experience, making it a must-watch for Downton Abbey enthusiasts.
Downton Abbey (2025) Actors
Hugh Bonneville as Robert Crawley
DOB: 10 November 1963
Hugh Bonneville is an accomplished English actor best known for his portrayal of Robert Crawley, the Earl of Grantham, in Downton Abbey.
Role in the Movie: Robert Crawley is the patriarch of the Crawley family and a figurehead at Downton Abbey.
In The Grand Finale, Robert continues to guide his family through new challenges and helps to steer the estate through turbulent times.
What to Expect: Viewers can expect Robert’s leadership qualities to come to the forefront as he navigates the trials of the changing aristocratic world.
His loyalty to his family will remain unwavering, and his wisdom will continue to play a crucial role in the family’s legacy.
Favorite Things: Hugh enjoys hiking and spending time with his family, often participating in charity events.
Notable Works: Paddington, Notting Hill, Twenty Twelve.
Laura Carmichael as Edith Pelham
DOB: July 16, 1986
Laura Carmichael is an English actress known for her breakthrough role as Edith Crawley, the Crawley family’s middle daughter, in Downton Abbey.
Role in the Movie: Edith Pelham, now a married woman, continues to deal with her personal ambitions while managing the complexities of her role within the family.
In The Grand Finale, Edith’s evolution is clear as she navigates life as a mother and wife while keeping the family’s estate afloat.
What to Expect: Edith’s character will experience growth, showing both strength and vulnerability as she confronts new challenges with her family.
Her storyline may also explore how she balances her personal dreams with family expectations.
Favorite Things: Laura enjoys photography and traveling, often spending time on creative pursuits in her free time.
Notable Works: Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011), Madame Bovary (2014), Burn Burn Burn (2015).
Jim Carter as Charles Carson
DOB: August 19, 1948
Jim Carter is an English actor best known for his iconic role as Charles Carson, the loyal butler of Downton Abbey.
Role in the Movie: Carson remains a steadfast and dignified figure in the household.
In the movie, his experience and wisdom are called upon to handle the delicate matters of the Crawley family.
What to Expect: Expect Carson’s unwavering loyalty to the Crawleys to be central to the plot, as he offers counsel and support in the face of change.
His relationship with Mrs. Hughes is likely to provide both tenderness and humor in the film.
Favorite Things: Jim enjoys playing classical music, particularly the piano, and has a passion for classic literature.
Notable Works: Shakespeare in Love, The Little Vampire (2000), Ella Enchanted (2004)
Raquel Cassidy as Phyllis Baxter
DOB: January 22, 1968
Raquel Cassidy is an English actress who has portrayed Phyllis Baxter, a housemaid at Downton Abbey, since the later seasons of the series.
Role in the Movie: Phyllis Baxter’s role continues to evolve as she navigates her duties within the household.
She plays a key role in maintaining the stability of the estate while interacting with various family members.
What to Expect: Phyllis will likely have a more prominent role in the finale, providing emotional support to the staff and contributing to the familial atmosphere.
Favorite Things: Raquel enjoys playing tennis and attending live theater performances.
Notable Works: Do I Love You (2002), Before You Go (2002), Festival (2005)
Paul Copley as Albert Mason
DOB: November 25, 1944
Paul Copley is an English actor known for his diverse roles in both television and film. He portrays Albert Mason, the longtime gardener at Downton Abbey.
Role in the Movie: Albert continues to work tirelessly at Downton Abbey, maintaining the grounds and providing wisdom and support when needed.
He is a beloved character, respected by the Crawley family.
What to Expect: Albert’s character will offer moments of reflection and tenderness, contributing to the film’s underlying themes of family legacy and tradition.
Favorite Things: Paul is an avid birdwatcher and enjoys gardening in his spare time.
Notable Works: A Bridge Too Far (1977), Zulu Dawn (1979), The Remains of the Day (1993)
Brendan Coyle as John Bates
DOB: December 12, 1963
Brendan Coyle is an English actor, best known for his portrayal of John Bates, the butler and beloved character in Downton Abbey.
Role in the Movie: John Bates’ loyalty and devotion to both his family and his work are central to his character.
As the estate faces challenges, Bates will remain steadfast in his support of the Crawleys.
What to Expect: Viewers can expect a deepened emotional arc for Bates, with moments of tension and reflection as he confronts the changes within the estate.
Favorite Things: Brendan enjoys reading classic literature and spending time with his family.
Notable Works: Me Before You (2016), Mary Queen of Scots (2018), The Raven
Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Talbot
DOB: December 15, 1981
Michelle Dockery is an English actress celebrated for her portrayal of Lady Mary Crawley, the sharp and often conflicted elder daughter of the Crawley family.
Role in the Movie: Lady Mary, now married, will continue to navigate her role as both a mother and a key figure in the management of Downton Abbey.
What to Expect: Expect Lady Mary to step into a leadership role, as she takes on more responsibility for the estate’s future while dealing with her personal dilemmas.
Favorite Things: Michelle enjoys dancing, particularly ballet, and supporting charity events.
Notable Works: Flight Risk (2025), The Gentlemen, Anna Karenina.
Kevin Doyle as Joseph Molesley
DOB: April 10, 1960
Kevin Doyle is an English actor known for his portrayal of Joseph Molesley, a loyal servant at Downton Abbey.
Role in the Movie: Molesley’s character continues to bring a humorous and compassionate element to the series, and in the film, he will likely face new personal and professional challenges.
What to Expect: Viewers can expect Molesley’s characteristic humor to shine through, offering a much-needed lighthearted element to the drama.
Favorite Things: Kevin enjoys reading historical novels and attending live theater performances.
Notable Works: The Libertine (2004), Good (2008), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1996)
Michael Fox as Andy Parker
DOB: 5 January 1989
Michael Fox is an English actor known for his role as Andy Parker, the footman at Downton Abbey.
Role in the Movie: Andy Parker’s role as a servant in the household continues to evolve as he navigates the changing dynamics of both his personal life and the estate.
What to Expect: Andy’s journey may include personal growth, and he could take on a more significant role in the staff’s day-to-day activities.
Favorite Things: Michael enjoys playing soccer and spending time with his dog.
Notable Works: Good People (2013), Dunkirk (2017).
More Actors
• Joanne Froggatt as Anna Bates
• Paul Giamatti as Harold Levinson
• Harry Hadden-Paton as Herbert “Bertie” Pelham
• Robert James-Collier as Thomas Barrow
• Sue Johnston as Gladys Denker
• Allen Leech as Tom Branson
• Phyllis Logan as Elsie Carson
• Elizabeth McGovern as Cora Crawley
• Sophie McShera as Daisy Parker
• Tuppence Middleton as Lucy Branson
• Lesley Nicol as Beryl Patmore
• Douglas Reith as Richard “Dickie” Grey
• Imelda Staunton as Maud, Lady Bagshaw
• Samantha Bond as Lady Rosamund Painswick
• Dominic West as Guy Dexter
• Penelope Wilton as Isobel Grey
New Actors for The Grand Finale
Joely Richardson
Alessandro Nivola
Simon Russell Beale
Arty Froushan
Paul Giamatti
Dominic West
FAQ – Downton Abbey (2025)
Is Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale based on a true story?
No, Downton Abbey is a fictional drama series, though it draws inspiration from real historical events, particularly the British aristocracy and societal changes of the early 20th century.
Do I need to watch the previous seasons to enjoy the film?
While the film can be enjoyed on its own, watching the previous seasons of Downton Abbey will provide deeper context for the characters and their relationships.
Is this really the final Downton Abbey film?
Yes, The Grand Finale is billed as the definitive conclusion to the Downton Abbey saga, bringing closure to the beloved series.
Will there be any emotional moments?
Expect plenty of heartwarming and emotional scenes as the characters reflect on their past and look toward the future, likely making it an emotional rollercoaster for long-time fans.
Conclusion
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (2025) serves as the perfect farewell to one of television’s most iconic series.
With its beloved cast returning and new faces bringing fresh energy, this film promises to tie up the stories of the Crawley family and their loyal staff in a satisfying and emotional way.
Fans can expect heartwarming moments, drama, and the charm that made Downton Abbey a cultural phenomenon.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this cinematic conclusion is a celebration of everything that made the show great.