Downton Abbey's former star admits being 'choked up' watching final trailer

This week, devotees of Downton Abbey are saying goodbye to the cherished characters of the period drama as The Grand Finale film arrives in cinemas on Friday.

The hit series, which boasts numerous locations enthusiasts can explore, launched in 2010 and wrapped up in 2015, with two subsequent films delighting audiences.

Nevertheless, it has been confirmed that the third film, The Grand Finale, is marking the final appearance of the noble Crawley family on screens, although one star recently teased a possible spin-off.

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Star Lily James, who portrayed the spirited Lady Rose Aldridge in the show, reflected on the franchise's conclusion whilst praising the cast she previously worked with.

During Friday's edition of The One Show,presenter Clara Amfo mentioned Lily's reunion with former Downton Abbey colleague Dan Stevens in her latest film, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The BBC presenter commented: "You've got really special memories of working on Downton, haven't you?"

Lily responded: "Oh, I really do! It was such a special time in my life. I was just in the cinema and I saw the trailer for the final movie and I honestly got choked up, I can't wait to watch it.

"It was a really- that cast was just incredible and it will always hold a very special place in my heart."

Lily initially joined Downton during the third series in 2012 as the defiant cousin of the Crawley daughters, who was dispatched to reside at the manor.

Yet she departed the programme in 2015 when her character relocated to America.

The storyline for The Grand Finale revolves around Mary Crawley, portrayed by Michelle Dockery, who finds herself caught up in a public scandal as the family grapples with financial difficulties.

Earlier this year, Joanne Froggatt, who plays Anna Bates in Downton Abbey, shared some insights about the forthcoming film and what lies ahead for her character.

Speaking to The One Show presenters about bidding farewell, she said: "It's going to be hard! We've said goodbye a few times, thinking, 'This is the end', at the end of the seasons.

"Then we did one movie and we wondered if we'd get a second movie. This really is, the third and final, so this really is goodbye. It's going to be emotional, but all good things must come to an end, I suppose."

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is now showing in cinemas.

The One Show is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.