Mamma Mia 2 star Lily James reveals she WON’T be in Downton Abbey movie as Lady Rose

The ITV drama is returning for its long-rumoured big screen outing, but James – who shot to fame playing Lady Rose on the show – won’t be part of it.

Whilst promoting her role in Mamma Mia sequel Here We Go Again, she told People why she’s not involved and it’s “not schedules”.

“My character Rose moved off to New York, so it would be far-fetched to bring her back,” she explained.

“I would have loved to have come back for a scene, but for a movie, it can’t be like a Christmas special and it needs to be a focused storyline. There was simply no space for Rose.”

But she added: “I spoke to Laura [Carmichael] not long ago and was texting Michelle [Dockery] about Love Island and it’s going to be really exciting. And the whole gang is coming back.

“I’m so excited for it — I’m going to be front row.”

James plays the young Donna in Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again; the character made famous by Meryl Streep.

Streep has been full of praise for her new co-star, saying: “I had no idea Lily James had the singing chops.

“Some people sing from the bottom of their feet, right up. She shakes the rafters, she’s amazing.”

James recalled: “When I found out I would be part of the sequel, i was terrified and very excited.

“Donna is a character so beloved and Meryl Streep is the best actress of all time.”

“Lily has a great energy,” Streep added. “And her spirit is what young Donna was. She’s just perfect.”

James joins the likes of Amanda Seyfried, Christine Baranski, Julie Walters, Dominic Cooper, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgard and Cher in the cast.

Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! is out on Friday.