Revisiting His Role

During an interview with People, Giamatti, who is set to appear in an upcoming episode of Black Mirror, spoke about stepping back into the shoes of Harold Levinson, a character he portrayed during the show’s Christmas special in Season 4. He remarked, “It was not the same without her, but it felt very much like in her honor in some way. She certainly still feels present through the whole thing.” Giamatti emphasized that although her absence is profoundly felt, the cast performed with her spirit in mind.

A Surprising Return

Giamatti expressed his surprise at being invited to return for a more prominent role in the third Downton Abbey film, especially since his original appearance was limited to just one episode. “The interesting thing for me was that they even asked me at all because I was like, ‘I don’t have an important character in this story.’ But what’s funny is my character has a very significant role. He does something very significant in the movie,” he teased.

Tributes and Cast Members

Joining Giamatti in Downton Abbey 3 are newcomers Joely Richardson, Alessandro Nivola, Simon Russell Beale, and Arty Froushan. The ensemble cast also reunites with familiar faces such as Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, and Jim Carter, among others.

A Meaningful Tribute

His remarks resonate with those made by executive producer Gareth Neame, who had previously indicated that the film would include a “meaningful” homage to the late Maggie Smith. “The fact that Dame Maggie herself has now passed away since that time… has given a real added poignancy to a story that we would have planned anyway,” Neame stated, pointing out that the story’s themes of mourning the Dowager Countess of Grantham would now feel even more genuine.

Release Date

Downton Abbey 3 is set to premiere in theaters on September 12.