Is Downton Abbey's Most Controversial Death Still Justified a Decade Later?

In a recent discussion about the evolution of the beloved television series, the actors reflected on key moments and character arcs, including Dan Stevens' departure from "Downton Abbey" as Matthew Crawley. Stevens left the series after three seasons, culminating in a controversial car crash scene that marred the Christmas special. The cast shared their thoughts on the franchise, the late Dame Maggie Smith, and characters they wished had returned.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Dan Stevens left "Downton Abbey" after three seasons, with his character's exit sparking controversy.
• The cast fondly remembers the late Dame Maggie Smith and shares her impact on the series.
• Actors reflect on characters they wished could return, showcasing their emotional ties to the series.
• Upcoming film "Downton Abbey: The Grande Finale" set for release on 26 September 2023.
• The cast discusses the creative choices behind character arcs and their personal experiences on set.

Dan Stevens' Departure and Matthew Crawley's Fate

Dan Stevens’ departure from "Downton Abbey" remains a significant talking point for fans of the series. After portraying the charming Matthew Crawley for three seasons, Stevens chose to leave the show, which culminated in a shocking plot twist. His character, who had survived significant personal struggles, including temporary paralysis after World War I, met an untimely death in a car crash. This tragic turn of events occurred just after Matthew welcomed his first child with Lady Mary, adding layers of heartbreak for viewers.

The decision to kill off Matthew Crawley during the Christmas special, which aired on 25 December in the coveted 8:45pm slot, drew considerable backlash. Fans felt that the character's demise overshadowed the festive spirit of the episode, turning what was meant to be a joyous occasion into a moment of sorrow. Jim Carter, who played Mr Carson, defended the narrative choice by stating that it was a consequence of contractual agreements and that life must go on, both for the characters and the actors involved.

The Creative Journey: Dan's Perspective

In an interview with The Guardian in 2022, Dan Stevens explained his reasoning for leaving the show. He expressed that after three years, he felt a desire to explore new creative avenues and genres that he had not previously tackled. While he acknowledged the affection many fans hold for his character, he felt the need to pursue other opportunities. "There were definitely creative itches left unscratched," he elaborated, highlighting the balance between securing a role in a beloved series and the yearning for artistic growth.

This sentiment resonates with many actors who grapple with the decision of staying in a successful role versus branching out to new experiences. Stevens recognised that while some fans admired his choice, others viewed it as reckless, given the iconic status of his character.

Reflecting on Dame Maggie Smith

The recent panel discussion also touched on the legacy of the late Dame Maggie Smith, who portrayed Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham. Smith's character became a cornerstone of the series, providing wit and wisdom through her sharp dialogue. The cast revealed their fond memories of working alongside her and expressed their collective sadness at her passing in September 2024, at the age of 89.

In the latest film, "Downton Abbey: The Grande Finale," which is scheduled for release on 26 September 2023, the cast paid tribute to Smith. They believe she would have appreciated the honour but would have likely rolled her eyes at the sentimentality of it all. Kevin Doyle, who played Mr Molesley, noted that Smith was known for her unsentimental nature, yet they all felt her presence in spirit during filming.

Honouring a Beloved Character

Raquel Cassidy, who played Phyllis Baxter, shared a touching moment from the set, revealing that the cast lined up to honour Smith as she exited the stage, reminiscent of the show's tradition where servants line up to show respect to their superiors. Although Cassidy was not present for that specific moment, she recounted how emotional Smith was, highlighting the deep bonds that had developed among the cast over the years.

This camaraderie and respect for one another is evident in their discussions about characters and storylines they wished had been explored further. Phyllis Logan, who portrayed Mrs Hughes, expressed her desire to see the return of her real-life husband’s character, Horace Bryant, who had a complicated relationship with her character on the show.

Longing for Character Returns

Throughout the discussion, the actors shared their wishes for characters they would have liked to see make a return. Cassidy mentioned her yearning to see Sybil once again, while Doyle expressed a desire for Siobhan Finneran’s Miss O’Brien to return, highlighting how impactful these characters were to the narrative. Jim Carter humorously noted his initial annoyance when his wife was cast in an aristocratic role while he played a servant, but their shared scenes became cherished memories.

This reflective conversation underscores the emotional connections the cast holds with their characters and the stories they told over the years. Each actor brought their unique perspective, creating a rich tapestry of memories from their time on "Downton Abbey."

The Legacy of "Downton Abbey"

The legacy of "Downton Abbey" is not merely about the individual characters but also the collaborative storytelling that has resonated with millions of viewers. The series has captured the intricacies of early 20th-century British life, exploring themes of class, love, and resilience against the backdrop of historical events. As the franchise continues with its latest film installment, fans are eager to see how the story unfolds and the impact it will have on the characters they have grown to love.

With "Downton Abbey: The Grande Finale" set to hit cinemas soon, audiences are reminded of the show's rich history and the beloved characters who have made it a cultural phenomenon. The heartfelt discussions among the cast illustrate not only their deep appreciation for the series but also the enduring impact it has had on their lives.

As we anticipate the film’s release, it prompts us to reflect: What are your favourite moments from "Downton Abbey," and which characters do you wish had a different fate? #DowntonAbbey #FilmTribute #MaggieSmith

FAQs

Why did Dan Stevens leave "Downton Abbey"?

Dan Stevens left "Downton Abbey" to pursue new creative opportunities after three seasons. He felt that his contract had ended and wanted to explore different genres beyond the series.

What happened to Matthew Crawley in "Downton Abbey"?

Matthew Crawley, played by Dan Stevens, died in a car crash shortly after the birth of his first child. This event occurred during the Christmas special, which was controversial among fans.

How did the cast honour Dame Maggie Smith after her passing?

The cast of "Downton Abbey" paid tribute to Dame Maggie Smith in the latest film. They lined up to honour her, reflecting on her significant impact on the series and their personal memories of her.

What characters did the cast wish could return?

Cast members expressed a desire to see characters like Sybil, Miss O’Brien, and Horace Bryant return to the series. Each actor reflected on their emotional connections to these characters.

When is "Downton Abbey: The Grande Finale" releasing?

"Downton Abbey: The Grande Finale" is set to be released in cinemas on 26 September 2023, continuing the story of the beloved characters.