The esteemed Crawley family and their dedicated staff are preparing to take their final bow on the big screen. “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” is set to premiere in theaters worldwide on September 12, 2025, promising to deliver the perfect blend of high-stakes drama, elegant romance, and the signature wit that has made the franchise a global phenomenon. This concluding chapter places Lady Mary Talbot at the center of a storm, as a devastating public scandal threatens to unravel the family’s impeccable reputation. Simultaneously, financial troubles loom, forcing the household to confront the unsettling possibility of social disgrace and compelling them to finally embrace a new era with the next generation leading the great estate into an uncertain future.

Reprising their iconic roles for one last outing is the beloved core cast, including Michelle Dockery, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, and Joanne Froggatt. They are joined by returning favorites and exciting new additions, such as the acclaimed Paul Giamatti reprising his role as Harold Levinson and Dominic West and Joely Richardson joining the esteemed ensemble. This grand finale is poised to be a sweeping, emotional, and satisfying conclusion to the story that has captivated millions, offering long-time fans a heartfelt farewell to the world of Downton Abbey.

Meet the Cast of “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale”

1- Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Talbot

Michelle Dockery returns to her career-defining role as the formidable, complex, and fiercely loyal Lady Mary Crawley Talbot. Having been at the heart of the series since its inception, Dockery has masterfully charted Mary’s journey from a sharp-tongued young aristocrat to a capable estate manager and widow, and finally to a remarried woman balancing love, duty, and motherhood. Her performance has earned her three Emmy nominations and global acclaim, solidifying Lady Mary as one of television’s most compelling heroines. In this final film, Dockery will lead the narrative as Mary’s past decisions threaten to erupt into a public scandal that could destroy everything the Crawleys hold dear.

Beyond Downton, Dockery has proven her remarkable range in a variety of projects, from the haunting thriller The Gentlemen and its Netflix series sequel to the true-crime drama Defending Jacob. However, her return to Downton Abbey is a homecoming to the role that made her a star. This plot allows Dockery to explore every facet of Mary’s character—her strength, her vulnerability, her pride, and her deep love for her family and home—providing a powerful and fitting culmination to her character’s epic arc.

2- Hugh Bonneville as Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham

Hugh Bonneville once again embodies the dignified, sometimes stubborn, but always well-intentioned paterfamilias, Robert, Earl of Grantham. Bonneville’s performance has been the bedrock of the series, capturing Robert’s struggle to navigate the rapidly changing social and political landscape of the 20th century while upholding the traditions he holds sacred. His portrayal is a nuanced blend of authority, warmth, and occasional comedic bewilderment, earning him a Golden Globe nomination. The film’s financial plotline will directly challenge Lord Grantham’s stewardship, forcing him to confront his greatest fear: failing to protect Downton for future generations.

Outside of Downton, Bonneville is renowned for his roles in projects like Paddington and its sequel, where he brought charm and warmth to the role of Mr. Brown. His extensive career spans classical theatre, film, and television, but his legacy will be forever intertwined with that of the Earl. This final chapter promises to test Robert’s resilience like never before, allowing Bonneville to deliver a poignant performance about legacy, change, and acceptance.

3- Elizabeth McGovern as Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham

Elizabeth McGovern reprises her role as the gracious, kind-hearted, and subtly powerful American heiress, Cora, Countess of Grantham. McGovern has been celebrated for her portrayal of Cora, whose unwavering love for her family and quiet diplomacy often serve as the moral compass and stabilizing force within the tumultuous household. Her unique perspective as an “outsider” who became the very soul of the British aristocracy has been a critical element of the show’s dynamic. As the family faces scandal and financial ruin, Cora’s strength and grace under pressure will be paramount.

McGovern, an Oscar-nominated actress for Ragtime, has had a distinguished career on both sides of the Atlantic. Her post-Downton work includes leading the band Sadie and the Hotheads and continuing her work in film and theatre. Returning to Cora allows McGovern to complete the journey of a woman who truly became the lady of the house in every sense, showcasing the deep partnership and love between Cora and Robert as they face their greatest challenges together.

4- Laura Carmichael as Lady Edith Hexham

Laura Carmichael returns as the resilient and triumphant Lady Edith Pelham, Marchioness of Hexham. Carmichael beautifully portrayed Edith’s transformation from the overlooked and envious “middle sister” into a successful businesswoman, magazine editor, and happily married marchioness, providing one of the series’ most satisfying character arcs. Her journey symbolized the new opportunities opening up for women of her era. In this finale, Edith, now secure in her own status and happiness, will likely be a crucial source of support and level-headed advice for her sister Mary during the scandal.

Since the series ended, Carmichael has built a diverse career with roles in Netflix’s The Crown as Princess Margaret’s lady-in-waiting, and in films like Made in Italy. Her return to Edith is a chance to reaffirm the character’s hard-won confidence and contentment, demonstrating how far she has come and solidifying her place as a respected and equal member of the Crawley family.

5- Allen Leech as Tom Branson

Allen Leech is back as Tom Branson, the former Irish chauffeur who married into the family and became Lord Grantham’s trusted estate manager and closest confidant. Leech’s portrayal of Branson’s journey from fiery socialist to integrated, beloved family member was one of the most nuanced and evolving stories of the entire series. He represents the bridge between the aristocracy and the modern world, making him essential to the theme of the next generation leading Downton forward. His pragmatic sense and unwavering loyalty will be vital assets in navigating the family’s crises.

Leech has found significant success post-Downton, with a major role in the Oscar-winning film Bohemian Rhapsody as Paul Prenter. His return to Tom Branson feels like a homecoming, and his character is perfectly positioned to help guide the estate through its financial troubles and support the family through the scandal, embodying the change and adaptation that is central to the film’s plot.

6- Joanne Froggatt as Anna Bates

Joanne Froggatt reprises her role as the kind-hearted, resilient, and fiercely loyal lady’s maid to Mary, Anna Bates. Froggatt’s performance, which earned her three Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe win, often served as the emotional heart of the downstairs narrative. Anna’s own journey, filled with personal trauma and ultimate happiness with Mr. Bates, resonated deeply with audiences. In this film, Anna will undoubtedly be Mary’s most trusted ally and confidante, standing by her side through the scandal and working tirelessly behind the scenes to protect her lady.

Froggatt has taken on dark and complex roles since the series ended, starring in acclaimed dramas like Angela Black and Dark Angel, showcasing her impressive range. Returning to Anna Bates allows her to once again tap into the character’s innate goodness and strength, providing a cornerstone of stability and devotion within the Downton household during its most turbulent time.

7- Brendan Coyle as Mr. Bates

Brendan Coyle returns as the stoic, dignified, and intensely loyal valet, John Bates. Coyle’s portrayal of the mysterious Mr. Bates, with his troubled past and unshakeable devotion to Anna, made him an instant fan favorite from the very first episode. His quiet strength and understated humor have been constants throughout the series. As the family faces trouble, Bates’s unwavering support for Lord Grantham and his role as Anna’s rock will remain as steadfast as ever, representing the enduring backbone of the downstairs staff.

Coyle has enjoyed a thriving career on stage and screen post-Downton, including a lead role in the series Jamestown. His return as Bates promises to deliver more of the character’s quiet power and deep love for his wife. In a story about weathering a storm, the rock-solid marriage of Anna and Bates will serve as a powerful symbol of enduring love and loyalty.

8- Phyllis Logan as Mrs. Hughes

The incredible Phyllis Logan returns as the wise, practical, and wonderfully sharp-tongued housekeeper, Elsie Hughes. Logan was the heart and soul of the downstairs world, her character evolving from a strict but fair manager into a beloved wife to Mr. Carson. Her no-nonsense Scottish wisdom and deep compassion have guided the staff through countless dramas. As the scandal threatens the house’s reputation, Mrs. Hughes will be instrumental in maintaining order and morale below stairs, ensuring the household runs smoothly despite the chaos upstairs.

Logan, a celebrated actress long before Downton, has continued to work steadily in projects like Shetland. Her return to Mrs. Hughes is a gift to fans, offering the chance to see the character’s graceful authority and warm heart one last time. She represents the old guard that must also adapt to secure the future of the home they all love.

9- Penelope Wilton as Isobel Gray, Lady Merton

Penelope Wilton brings back the progressive, compassionate, and wonderfully opinionated Isobel Crawley, now Lady Merton. Wilton provided a brilliant intellectual and social counterpoint to the Downton aristocracy, championing social reform, women’s rights, and modern medicine. Her witty verbal sparring with the Dowager Countess was a highlight of the series. Now happily married to Lord Merton, Isobel will continue to be a voice of reason and modern thought, offering crucial support and perspective to her family during their time of need.

Wilton, a distinguished actress of stage and screen known for her roles in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and After Life, imbues Isobel with intelligence and heart. Her presence in the finale ensures that the forward-thinking, compassionate ideals she represents will have a voice as the Crawleys navigate their future.

10- Paul Giamatti as Harold Levinson

Academy Award nominee Paul Giamatti reprises his memorable role from the 2013 Christmas Special as Cora’s ne’er-do-well brother, Harold Levinson. The American playboy from Newport brought a whirlwind of chaotic energy and humor during his previous visit. His return suggests that the Crawleys’ financial troubles may require calling upon the wealthier, albeit less reliable, American branch of the family. Giamatti’s superb comedic timing and chemistry with the cast were a standout, and his return promises to inject both levity and potential solutions into the tense situation.

Giamatti, a critically acclaimed actor known for Sideways, Billions, and The Holdovers, is a magnificent addition to any cast. His return to the Downton universe is a thrilling prospect for fans, as Harold’s unconventional methods and outsider perspective could be exactly what the Crawleys need to save their estate, creating fantastic dramatic and comedic moments.

11- Dominic West as Guy Dexter

The acclaimed actor Dominic West joins the cast as Guy Dexter, a charismatic and successful film director from Hollywood. West is renowned for his roles in The Wire, The Affair, and The Crown, where he played Prince Charles. His character’s arrival in the refined world of Downton Abbey suggests a fascinating culture clash. As a figure from the glamorous and modern film industry, Guy Dexter could be the source of Mary’s scandal, a potential solution to their financial woes, or both, representing the inescapable influence of the new media age on the old world.

West’s casting adds a significant new dynamic to the film. His character likely embodies the very change that the Crawleys must grapple with, forcing them to interact with the world of celebrity and commerce in ways they never have before. His presence is sure to stir the pot and create compelling drama.

12- Joely Richardson as Lady Petersfield

The illustrious Joely Richardson joins the ensemble as Lady Petersfield, a sophisticated and well-connected aristocrat. Richardson, known for her roles in The Tudors, Nip/Tuck, and Lady Chatterley’s Lover, comes from a legendary acting family and effortlessly embodies grace and authority. A character with a title and influence like Lady Petersfield would be a key figure in the high society that the Crawleys risk being ostracized from. She could be a potential ally who helps quell the scandal or a formidable adversary who helps spread it.

Richardson’s addition to the cast deepens the world of the British elite. Her character will likely serve as a barometer for the social standing of the Crawleys, reflecting the damage of the scandal and the high stakes of their fight for redemption within their own privileged circle.

13- Alessandro Nivola as Gus Sambrook

The superb Alessandro Nivola joins the story as Gus Sambrook. Nivola, celebrated for his recent Oscar-nominated performance in The Many Saints of Newark and his work in Disobedience and The Art of Self-Defense, is an actor of immense depth and charisma. The nature of his character is intriguing; he could be a financier brought in to address the family’s monetary troubles, a mysterious figure from the past connected to the scandal, or a new romantic interest that complicates matters further. His presence is a guaranteed catalyst for significant plot development.

Nivola’s talent for playing complex, magnetic characters makes him a perfect fit for the world of Downton Abbey. His role will undoubtedly be pivotal, whether he is there to help save Downton or to further challenge the Crawley family’s stability, adding a layer of sophistication and intrigue to the finale.