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IT’S OFFICIAL: Downton Abbey The Movie To Go Into Production This Summer

By Michael Fairman

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The highly-anticipated and rumored revival of Downton Abbey to the big screen is on!  Production is slated to begin later this summer.

From what we understand, all of the original cast is set to reprise their signature roles in the motion picture, written by series creator Julian Fellowes.

Fellowes will also serve as the executive producer along with other ‘Downton’ notables behind the scenes: Gareth Neame, Liz Trubridge, and Nigel Marchant. Brian Percival is set to direct.  Percival also directed the pilot episode of the critically-acclaimed and beloved period soap opera series.

In a statement, Gareth Neame expressed: “When the television 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.”

Focus Features chairman, Peter Kujawski, shared: “Since the series ended, fans of Downton have long been waiting for the Crawley family’s next chapter. We’re thrilled to join this incredible group of filmmakers, actors and craftspeople, led by Julian Fellowes and Gareth Neame, in bringing back the world of Downton to the big screen.”

Downton Abbey ran for six seasons on PBS  and received 15 Primetime Emmy awards and 69 nominations.

Actress Joanne Froggatt, who plays maid Anna Bates, took to Twitter with much enthusiasm at the news: “Delighted to announce we’re getting the band back together! #DowntonMovie #DowntonAbbey”

So, thrilled to hear the Downton Abbey movie is happening? Comment below.

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Hope they keep it classy like the series…every time they move something to the big screen they add more violence, foul words and nudity…and if Miss America drops the swimsuit for the Me2 movement lets stop exploiting women in movies(even if they agree to do the scenes) and drop the nudity…maybe that makes me an old prude well i dont care…a lot of stuff in pictures is not needed-tell a good story is what is needed!!!

Jimh, thanks for your insight and common sense, two things sorely lacking today. The adage ‘less is more’ certainly applies to most movies, especially DOWNTON. They didn’t need profanity or explicit sex before and they won’t need it for the big screen. I’m not a prude and I agree with you. In fact, the more “older” movies I see, the more I see how much we’ve lost in the simple act of storytelling. The movies of the 1970s, my favorite era, pushed some boundaries but not at the expense of the movie. I guess we have to place some blame on the supporters of this recent drivel we’re being offered but, honestly, how many comic book movies or TV remakes can they regurgitate? I trust the filmmakers will honor the DOWNTON legacy, maybe even resurrect Sybil. One can always dream!

Well said…

The me too move me too moment is a joke get off watching the media it is not news anymore it’s just garbage to stir you up ! Live your life and ignore these ignorant people

I very much doubt there will be a reason for concern on that matter, Jimh! Julian Fellowes wrote the script for this film, just like all the series episodes, and he has a true love and respect for his characters….he won’t exploit them simply for the sake of the big screen! I have every expectation that they will be just as classy and unforgettable as we remember them, only a bit older and wiser(?) Best of all, Dame Maggie Smith is returning, so it will definitely be a quality project…

Shay…So our favorite dowager is back! Yea! I’m going to be optimistic the movie will not disappoint.

I’m sure it won’t, Rose! I have great faith in Julian Fellowes’ ability to recreate the magic of the original Downton….Instead of hastily cashing in with a second-rate version of the iconic series in order to placate an audience clearly hungry for more, he lovingly took the time and care necessary to assemble all of the wonderful elements found in the previous seasons of the show. Additionally, you have to know that there is no way our beloved Dame Maggie would be attached to this film unless the quality remained….The Countess Dowager simply wouldn’t have it! I’ve been watching the reruns on PBS this summer, and no matter how many times I view an episode, it still resonates for me….how special and rare is that in this day and age???

I dont go to movies anymore but i will for this one…

I watched one episode and I found it to be a snory instead of a story. Very boring show!

Hi Michael,,I see Brit media as either slapsticky or snooty, so yah boring.
But! I like Sherlock Holmes !

I go The Handsmadian’s Tail a 100 times more than Downton Abbey .

The Handmaid’s Tale is dark and depressing, but it’s still fascinating to watch and brilliantly acted with the exception of that actress who played Eden.

Michael…Agree with you about dark and depressing, which has bothered me on some of our soaps storylines…even though they don’t come close th Handmaids. But I am riveted to it, and from what I have seen from tonight’s promo…wow.

su000… On the good side, still, three quality programs worth watching. At least for me who doesn’t have/or won’t spend money to subscribe to Netflix, Hula, etc. And hopefully the few others starting in the fall won’t disappoint.

Delighted

The Brits talk like they have marbles in their mouth lol
I need to use CC to know what they’re saying..
I can’t go there ..

The tower of Babel in the Old Testament stopped men from speaking one language,one dialect,and sent them off across the globe speaking in differences. The marbles made the world what it is now. SMH.

I am sure they think the same about us

SO THRILLED to know that this is coming out!!! I LOVED Downton Abbey and watched it faithfully. Just knowing that they were working on getting things together for a movie kept me happy. Now that it’s a reality, I am in seventh heaven!

This makes me sad because my sis who loved this Erie’s she had Alzheimer’s and she will now never be able to see this movie. I had never seen the series until I would go over and wstch it over and over with her . I hope it turns our grestvshe would have lived it but now really can’t watch anything. Horrible disease that is why I get upset at Gh and y&r they had a chance to be a teachable moment they both blew it

k/Kay…sorry about your sister and the ripple affect it must have on your fairly. I don’t want to dredge up any bad memories, but what would have made both soaps more of a teachable moment. I’m asking as one who may see this horrible disease creeping into a family I know. Thanks.

I am thrilled!!!!!!!!!!!! I have missed all the wonderful Downton Abbey characters so very much. Can’t wait to see the movie.

Not interested in any more stories about rich people and their happy indentured servants.

Indentured??? As an avid Downton fan, I have never seen any servants portrayed who fit that description! The term was mainly used in the “New World” for those poor Europeans who lacked ships’ passage funds, so their prospective employers in the colonies (later United States of America…) paid their way in return for a certain time of guaranteed work in service to them from each individual who agreed to such an arrangement! Nobody was indebted to Lord Grantham on such a contractual basis. In fact, there were a number of servants who left his employ during the series…Gwen, O’Brien, Alfred, just to name a few, who went on to other endeavors. And the many who stayed or returned after an enforced absence didn’t want to leave despite other opportunities presenting themselves…including Carson, Mrs. Hughes, Anna, Bates, and even Thomas in the end!!! Hence whilst you may not appreciate the show for what it is, at least give Mr. Fellowes credit for accurately depicting history during the Victorian/Edwardian eras and beyond….he painstakingly does his research and uses an expert on all aspects of life during these periods in order to provide the most realistic presentations of these times, and that is but one reason that Downton Abbey is so beloved by the masses.

Shay
Just saw this post and thanks for the wonderful explanation to the word indentured and it’s real meaning. Miss you.

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‘Santa Barbara’ Favorites A Martinez and Marcy Walker, ‘Cruz and Eden’ Reunion Chat, On Demand Replay Available for Half Price (Exclusive)

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The love was felt around the world during the Sunday, June 7 livestream conversation featuring enduring Santa Barbara Daytime Emmy winners, A Martinez and Marcy Walker who played Cruz Castillo and Eden Capwell on the iconic NBC soap opera. The popular duo reunited for this special one-day only special event honoring their most memorable of daytime roles.

Santa Barbara was globally a hit, and nothing illustrated that more than having attendees from 20 countries and over four continents participate in and watch the live chat moderated by Melissa Braverman, the author of Santa Barbara: The Complete Story due out this fall.

While many were not able to purchase the initial livestream when the ticket costs were revealed to be $100,  A Martinez previously clarified the event was to also raise money for Walker, who is currently facing a very serious health situation, now there is a way to catch the replay at half the price.

Courtesy: MBraverman

HOW YOU CAN STILL CATCH A AND MARCY’S LIVESTREAM

Michael Fairman TV can share exclusively that if you missed the chance to see and listen to what A and Marcy had to say, On demand access is available at the event link for a half price at $50 (guests can contribute up to $100 if they so chose). Like the livestream, 100% of On demand sales for the recording will be available for a limited time only, and also go toward Marcy’s medical expenses.

There was plenty of laughter, tears, and reminiscing through the the two and a half hour chat which included: some memorable footage and images from the love story of Cruz and Eden. At one point, Marcy reflected on the enduring impact and affection for Cruz and Eden. “You hope that whatever you do in this life, that you’ll make an impact of some kind,” expressed Walker. “It doesn’t have to necessarily be wrapped up in success or career or anything like that, but I think we all want desperately to feel like our time here blessed someone. To hear that somebody’s life was even a moment better because of what we did is a massive gift.

Photo: NBC

A AND MARCY’S DESIRE TO WORK TOGETHER AGAIN

In a moment that brought joy to those in attendance, A and Marcy both expressed a sincere hope and desire that one day they can work together again. Martinez explained, “There’s more avenues to pursue now than there have ever been. I would say just keep a good thought for it. I’ve been holding it for decades, and I fully intend to do whatever I can to make it happen. We’re engaged in trying to make it happen. And you know, we’ll see. I know we both want to do it.” Marcy simply nodded and responded “Amen.”

Melissa Braverman shared with Michael Fairman TV, her sentiments on hosting the Santa Barbara favorites. “Seeing A and Marcy together again, even virtually, was an absolute gift. It instantly reminded all of us why we fell so hard for Cruz and Eden in the first place. Their undeniable chemistry leaped off the screen and straight back into our hearts, proving that the magic they created all those years ago hasn’t faded one bit. Sharing in equal parts laughter and tears felt like catching up with old friends. It just meant the world to see them side-by-side again and to see how this incredible fandom showed up for Marcy during such an important time for her.”

So, if you attended the livestream chat with A Martinez and Marcy Walker, what did you enjoy hearing about the most? Now the tickets have dropped to watch the replay On Demand, would you want to check it out? Let us know via the comment section below.

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‘Days of Our Lives’ Officially Confirms Ryan Quan Returning as Co-Head Writer Beginning in July

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There is definitely a shake-up going down at the writing team at Peacock’s Days of Our Lives. Now, the long-running soap opera has confirmed, what has been previously reported, that current General Hospital breakdown writer, Ryan Quan is heading back to his old stomping grounds in Salem. This time as the series co-head writer.

The appointment of Quan comes with the official news that current co-head writer, Paula Cwikly, who was previously rumored to be departing the series, is not. She is staying with the soap opera and transitioning to a consultant role with the show. Now, Quan will join current co-head writer, Jeanne Marie Ford to steer the ship for the characters on the canvas.

On Wednesday, TV Insider, reported the official confirmation and that Quan will return to DAYS next month in July. In a statement to the outlet, executive producer, Ken Corday expressed, ‘We are lucky to have Ryan back in the fold. There are very few people who have such a deep knowledge and understanding of our show’s history. Stay tuned!”

Photo: JPI

THE FUTURE OF DAYS OF OUR LIVES

Since Days of our Lives unusual production schedule tapes ten-months ahead of air, the new creative team’s vision led by Quan and Jeanne Marie Ford are not expected to stream on Peacock until mid-2027.

Days of Our Lives is currently renewed through its 63rd season. The former NBC soap opera which transitioned to Peacock in September of 2022, celebrate its 60th anniversary in November of 2025.

The writing regime change comes after NBCUniversal Media Chairman Matt Strauss revealed that Peacock is expected to turn a profit for the first time in the current quarter, punctuating their investment with the enduring soap opera on its platform.

As for Quan, his knowledge of Salem is tremendous. Ryan joined Days of Our Lives as a writer’s assistant in 2007 after some time over at Passions. He then spent two decades and held every position on the writing team where he previously served as co-head writer from 2016-17 alongside Dena Higley.

Later, when Ron Carlivati took over as head writer for 7 years in 2017, Quan became his right-hand man and main story consultant for his deep knowledge of the history and the legacy of the show. After Carlivati exited the show in 2024, General Hospital hired Quan in 2025.

So, what do you think about DAYS making it official with Ryan Quan as the new co-head writer of the series alongside Jeanne Marie Ford. What do you think about the fact we won’t see the changes on-screen till 2027? Weigh-in via the comment section below.

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ABC Announces ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Texas Spin-Off Gets Straight-to-Series Order

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In a surprise move, coming a week after ABC unveiled its 2026-2027 fall television schedule, Grey’s Anatomy is getting a new spinoff co-created by the original series’ creator/executive producer Shonda Rhimes.

The new untitled medical drama will be written and executive produced by Rhimes and Grey’s Anatomy showrunner/executive producer Meg Marinis under the Shondaland and 20th Television umbrella. In addition, long-running ‘Grey’s’ star Ellen Pompeo will also serve as an EP of the spinoff.

The upcoming new series will debut midseason in 2027. This will be the first of Grey’s franchise not set in urban city or West Coast locale. According to Deadline, the new “edgy drama is about a team at a rural West Texas medical center — the last chance for care before miles of nowhere.”

Photo: ABC

In a statement, Marinis shared, “I am incredibly excited to expand the Grey’s Anatomy universe. This opportunity will bring new characters and stories to life that will embody the same heart, emotion and connection audiences have loved from Grey’s for more than two decades — all set in my home state of Texas. I am so grateful to Shonda Rhimes for creating this dynamic world and feel so fortunate that I get to be a part of it.”

A NEW GROUP OF DOCTORS IN RURAL TEXAS

The Texas spinoff will feature a a new group of doctors, but there will be some connection to the OG Grey’s Anatomy and possibly to Debbie Allen’s character of Catherine Fox. The amount of episodes in the series order has not yet been determined. Previous Grey’s Anatomy spinoffs were the defunct Station 19 and Private Practice.

Previously, Grey’s Anatomy was renewed for its upcoming 23rd season while the amount of episodes is unclear.  The last two seasons the series produced 18 episodes.

It should also be noted, Grey’s Anatomy and the Texas spinoff would likely share a time period, which requires limited-run orders for both with Grey’s premiering in the fall, followed by the spinoff on the midseason programming block.

So, what do you think about a Texas spinoff of Grey’s Anatomy coming in 2027? Who would you like to see from daytime or primetime as some of the featured roles as new doctors? Put on your casting directors hat and let us know via the comment section below.

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