‘Downton Abbey’ Movie on Track to Shoot Next Year

NBCUniversal International Studios president Michael Edelstein teases the plans in Singapore on Wednesday

downton abbey chaperone mcgovern
PBS

A “Downton Abbey” movie is in the works, a NBCUniversal executive said on Wednesday.

NBCUniversal International Studios president Michael Edelstein, who was in Singapore at a red-carpet event for “Downton Abbey: The Exhibition,” said that the movie has been in the works for some time and could begin production in 2018, the Associated Press reported.

He added that the biggest challenge was getting the cast together, which can include up to around 20 actors from the popular PBS “Masterpiece” show.

“We are working on getting the script right and then we’ve got to figure out how to get the [cast] together. Because as you know, people go on and do other things. But we’re hopeful to make a movie sometime next year,” Edelstein said.

A person close to the production affirmed Edelstein’s statements and said the film was in development, although they couldn’t confirm further details.

When asked about the film, however, cast members denied any knowledge, although all said they’d be up for the project.

“Oh, well, you’ve got confirmation before us. We have no idea if that’s happening,” said Sophie McShera, who played assistant cook Daisy Mason. “But we would all love to be part of the film if it was to happen, for sure.”

“Well, tell my agent, because we’re still waiting to know. We’re hoping that will happen soon,” said Laura Carmichael, who played Lady Edith Crawley.

There have been rumblings about the film since the show wrapped in 2015. Star Michelle Dockery teased the possibility of a film in 2016.

“I think there is potential for a film,” the actress who played Lady Mary Crawley told British newspaper The Telegraph. “That is something I would wholeheartedly consider, so we will see. It may not be over yet.”

The exhibition, which delves into the history behind the series, is embarking on an international tour. The experience features costumes and never-before-seen footage from the show.

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