Following actress Maggie Smith’s joke about her ‘Downton Abbey’ character possibly being “110 by now”, the Dowager Countess might make an appearance on another TV series that is in the works.
According to ‘Downton Abbey’ creator Julian Fellowes, a younger version of Smith’s character could appear in ‘The Gilded Age’, a period drama from NBC set in late 19th century New York which will be helmed by Fellowes after ‘Downton Abbey’ reaches its concluding episode in the upcoming sixth season.
“Robert Grantham would be in his early teens, Cora would be a child. A young Violet could make an appearance,” Fellowes explained.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter after announcing that the hit ITV show will finally reach its end, Fellowes expressed his enthusiasm at the prospect of working on the new NBC series.
"There's always an assumption that it's impossible to make lightning strike twice in the same place. But I'm looking forward to it, and I think it'll be quite different," the British screenwriter said.
However, although Fellowes revealed that he has been developing plans for ‘The Gilded Age’, a fictional TV series that supposedly takes place within the period of industrial development for America and among the upper rankings of New York’s high society, the 65-year-old writer stated that he would not begin any writing until he is already done with the Crawley family.
"I do want to be off with the old love before I'm on with the new," Fellowes said.
‘Downton Abbey’, which has successfully appealed to millions of viewers in numerous countries, has become a critically acclaimed hit; it has bagged awards in the Golden Globes, Emmys and BAFTAs after making its debut in 2010. Currently, the series is watched by approximately 11 million individuals in the U.K. alone.
The British series, filmed at Highclere Castle in Berkshire, includes highly accomplished cast members, such as Smith herself as well as Hugh Bonneville and Elizaberth McGovern. It has also boosted the acting careers of Michelle Dockery, Lily James, Dan Stevens and Allen Leech.
‘Downton Abbey’ has also included appearances by famous celebrities, including Kiri Te Kanawa, Shirley MacLaine and George Clooney.
PBS Chief Executive Officer and President Paula Kergey has assured audiences that the network will be collaborating well with Carnival, Masterpiece, and PBS member stations to bring the sixth season forward as the biggest yet.
