Lady Mary reveals cameras are rolling for Downton Abbey movie

Alongside a black-and-white photo of a clapperboard, the 36-year-old wrote on Instagram: “And… we’re off.” Dockery will be joined by original cast members Dame Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern and Laura Carmichael.

Bonneville confirmed that filming began on Monday. 

The 54-year-old actor, who plays Lord Grantham, said: “I’m looking forward to being back with that wonderful cast of people and the team. I’m so thrilled that a lot of the production team and a lot of the crew, our make-up artist who worked on the first two series, is coming back to join us. It’s really nice to be back with the family.” 

Newcomers to the cast include five-time Olivier Award nominee David Haig, and Imelda Staunton, who played Harry Potter villain Dolores Umbridge

The film has reportedly been written by show creator Julian Fellowes. 

While its plot remains a closely guarded secret, Downton bosses have confirmed that British director Brian Percival will take the helm. 

He directed several episodes, including the pilot in 2010, before the final episode of the ITV drama aired on Christmas Day 2015. 

Producer Gareth Neame said in a statement: “When the series drew to a close, it was our dream to bring the millions of global fans a movie and now, after getting many stars aligned, we are shortly to go into production. Julian’s script charms, thrills and entertains, and in Brian Percival’s hands we aim to deliver everything that one would hope for as Downton comes to the big screen.” 

Shown in more than 250 countries, the show won many awards, including three Golden Globes, 15 Primetime Emmy Awards and 69 Emmy nominations.