Paul Giamatti Says “Downton Abbey 3” Is ‘Not the Same’ Without Maggie Smith but She ‘Still Feels Present’ (Exclusive)

Paul Giamatti Reflects on the Legacy of Maggie Smith in ‘Downton Abbey 3’

The highly-anticipated release of ‘Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale’ is set to mark the conclusion of the beloved period drama series. Among the returning cast is two-time Oscar nominee Paul Giamatti, who reprises his role as Harold Levinson in the upcoming movie. Giamatti’s character, Harold, made his first appearance in the season 4 Christmas special of the series.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Giamatti shared his thoughts on returning to the world of ‘Downton Abbey’ following the passing of Dame Maggie Smith, who portrayed Violet Crawley in the series. Giamatti expressed that while Smith’s absence was deeply felt, her presence still lingered on set, influencing and inspiring the cast members.

Reflecting on his experience working with Smith, Giamatti mentioned that collaborating with the legendary actress was a highlight of his career, despite having limited scenes together. He acknowledged the significant loss that her passing had on the production but highlighted the dedication of the cast to honour her memory through their performances.

Harold Levinson’s character, as portrayed by Giamatti, is set to play a pivotal role in ‘Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale’. Fans of the series may recall Harold’s previous visit to Downton, where he forms a connection with Madeleine Allsopp, played by Poppy Drayton. The return of Harold in the new movie promises to unveil unexpected developments for the character.

Giamatti expressed his surprise at being approached to reprise his role, considering the perceived insignificance of his character in the storyline. However, he teased that Harold’s role in the movie would be substantial and impactful, adding a layer of intrigue to the character’s arc in the finale.

The actor praised the cohesive and welcoming atmosphere on set, crediting the talented cast and crew for creating a memorable filming experience. He highlighted the professionalism and camaraderie that defined the production process, making his return to ‘Downton Abbey’ a joyous and fulfilling endeavour.

‘Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale’ was scripted by franchise creator Julian Fellowes, with Simon Curtis returning to direct the film. The movie is poised to provide a fitting conclusion to the series, paying tribute to the enduring legacy of Maggie Smith’s iconic portrayal of Violet Crawley.

As audiences eagerly anticipate the release of the final instalment, the presence of Paul Giamatti in the ensemble cast serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of characters and performances that have defined the world of ‘Downton Abbey’. Giamatti’s reflections on his experience filming the movie offer a glimpse into the intricate storytelling and emotional depth that await viewers in the grand finale.