Hugh Bonneville says ‘Downton Abbey’ movie sequels ‘could run and run’

The first Downton movie is fast becoming a huge success around the world.

Inevitably, talk is already turning to sequels!

The creative team had revealed prior to the film’s premiere that a follow-up would be likely, as long as the first movie was a financial success.

Based on ITV’s hugely popular period drama series, the long-awaited Downton film topped the box office in the US and the UK upon its release.

Cast members Michelle Dockery, Michael Fox, Allen Leech and Phyllis Logan have all told ET Online that they “absolutely would” be keen to appear in a sequel.

Leech, who plays Tom Branson, revealed that getting the Dowager Countess back on screen could be a problem though – not for the first time!

The Irish actor joked: “You just have to talk to the notorious Maggie [Smith]!”

As for the movie’s plot, Michael Fox, who plays Andy, has hinted that the follow-up could feature Daisy and Andy tying the knot.

He teased: “Right around the next one, maybe we’ll see a wedding.”

Hugh Bonneville, who plays the Earl of Grantham is also excited about the possibility of returning to Downton.

He commented: “I think the appetite is there. It would be fun. The question is, ‘Will they get out of their armchairs to the movie theater?’ Obviously, we hope so, but unless they do, there won’t be more.”

Speaking to Vanity Fair, Bonneville suggested he’s up for a long future of Downton Abbey films.

He said: “How many movies were there of Star Wars? This could run and run.”

However, the first movie’s director Michael Engler thinks a sequel should only happen if the story is right and not just to make more money.

He told ET Online: “It’s wonderful to have fans wanting it, [but] that can’t be the only reason.”

In other exciting news for Downton Abbey fans, Highclere Castle will be available to book on Airbnb for one night only next month.

Downton Abbey: The Complete Collection DVD box set is available on Amazon.