Downton Abbey creator teases 'you could make a case' for character spin-off

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale hits cinemas on September 12 and signals the concluding chapter of the beloved Downton Abbey film series.

Numerous original cast members are poised to make their return, and prior to its launch, mastermindJulian Fellowes chatted with Radio Times about whether this truly represents the conclusion of an era.

Quizzed about the possibility of any spin-offs, he remarked that delving deeper into characters' various facets can only truly be achieved through a television series.

He elaborated: "When you think of somebody like Thomas (Rob James-Collier), his evolution was very moving."

Thomas Barrow was as a homosexual servant who originally appeared vindictive, yet discovered renewed purpose following his encounter with Guy Dexter (Dominic West), reports the Express.

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Asked whether Thomas might be considered for his own programme, Fellowes responded: "I think you could make a case for many of them."

He continued: "I like to write characters where the audience changes their mind about them and I hope they did with Thomas."

Nevertheless, he acknowledged having "probably said most of what I've got to say", leaving him uncertain whether such a venture might materialise.

"I don't know...Every time I say 'never' in this business, I find six months later, I'm doing exactly what I said I'd never do," he concluded.

This is not the first occasion Downton stars have discussed a potential spin-off, as Lady Cora actress Elizabeth McGovern hinted at an intriguing possibility during a separate chat with Deadline. When questioned whether this truly marks the conclusion of Downton Abbey, Elizabeth affirmed: "It is, definitely."

However, she did mention: "Unless they do something like go back in time and it's a different cast. You know, the young Maggie. There's been quite a lot of that sort of talk."

This time around, for the concluding film, the storyline focuses on Lady Mary Crawley (Michelle Dockery) and her divorce, which has sparked public controversy.

At the same time, the household is confronting a monetary emergency, which might further tarnish their standing.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is being released in cinemas on September 12.