Paul Giamatti Reveals *Downton Abbey 3* Feels ‘Not the Same’ Without Maggie Smith — But Her Spirit ‘Still Lingers’ (Exclusive)

Downton Abbey will conclude its beloved upstairs-downstairs saga with a third cinematic installment, named Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, scheduled for theatrical premiere on September 12.

Alongside returning stars Elizabeth McGovern, Hugh Bonneville, Jim Carter, Laura Carmichael, and Michelle Dockery, two-time Academy Award nominee Paul Giamatti unexpectedly reprises his role as Harold Levinson. The character debuted in season 4’s holiday episode titled “The London Season.”

Giamatti’s participation alongside franchise newcomers Alessandro Nivola and Joely Richardson arrives alongside Dame Maggie Smith’s absence. The iconic actress portrayed Violet Crawley throughout the series and first two films prior to her September 2024 passing.

During a PEOPLE interview promoting Netflix’s Black Mirror season 7 (premiering April 10), Giamatti discussed returning to Downton’s world amidst Smith’s notable absence. 

“Her presence was missed profoundly, yet the production maintained an air of reverence toward her legacy,” the 57-year-old actor reflected. “Though irreplaceable, the cast channeled her essence throughout filming.”

He continued, “Collaborating with her previously proved extraordinary, though our shared scenes were regrettably limited.”

Audiences recall Harold as the brother to Cora Crawley (McGovern) and Martha Levinson (Shirley MacLaine). His initial appearance featured during Rose’s (Lily James) debutante ball preparations at the Crawley estate.

Despite his aversion to English customs, Harold formed an unexpected connection with Rose’s acquaintance Madeleine Allsopp (Poppy Drayton), who pursued him after discovering his wealth. Although aware of her motives, the American heir maintained correspondence with Madeleine post-departure.

Given Harold’s brief prior involvement, Giamatti expressed surprise about his character’s resurgence: “Initially puzzled by the callback, considering my limited original role, I discovered he facilitates crucial plot developments this time.”

The actor cryptically added, “Ironically, my comeback involves orchestrating pivotal storyline events – an amusing twist given my earlier minimal presence.”

Reflecting on the production experience, Giamatti noted, “Immersion in Downton’s established universe proved delightful. The cohesive team radiates passion for their craft.”

The Oscar nominee concluded, “Reuniting with this exceptional ensemble reminded me why I cherished my initial participation. A thoroughly rewarding experience.”

Franchise creator Julian Fellowes penned the screenplay while co-producing with Gareth Neame and Liz Trubridge. Simon Curtis returns as director following 2022’s Downton Abbey: A New Era.

Additional returning cast comprises Phyllis Logan, Robert James-Collier, Joanne Froggatt, Allen Leech, Penelope Wilton, Lesley Nicol, Michael Fox, Raquel Cassidy, Brendan Coyle, Kevin Doyle, Harry Hadden-Paton, Sophie McShera, and Douglas Reith.

Dominic West reappears as Guy Dexter from A New Era, with Simon Russell Beale and Arty Froushan joining in undisclosed new roles.