Downton Abbey is ending, but not without a few surprises. One of them is the return of Paul Giamatti as Harold Levinson, a character fans first met in the season four Christmas special. Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, written by series creator Julian Fellowes and directed by Simon Curtis, arrives in cinemas on September 12.
It brings back much of the beloved cast while also introducing fresh faces to the grand estate. Alongside familiar names like Elizabeth McGovern, Hugh Bonneville, and Michelle Dockery, the new film includes Dominic West, Joely Richardson, Alessandro Nivola, and more. Yet, it’s Giamatti’s comeback that has fans curious, especially since it happens without Dame Maggie Smith, whose character shaped the soul of the series.
Paul Giamatti feels the movie is not the same without Dame Maggie Smith
Giamatti admits filming without Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away in September 2024, left a quiet space on set. She played Violet Crawley with such force that even in her absence, her energy seemed to linger. Giamatti said it felt like everyone was working with her memory in mind. He explained that her presence hadn’t vanished; it had simply changed form.
“It was not the same without her,” said Giamatti, speaking with People, “but it felt very much like in her honor in some way. She certainly still feels present through the whole thing. Not having her there is obviously a huge loss, but everybody was still acting in her spirit.”
Smith’s last scene as Violet aired in the second movie when her character died from illness. Now, her legacy becomes part of the story’s emotional center. Giamatti remembered his brief moments with her fondly, calling them some of his favorite memories from the first time around.
Paul Giamatti says his role is significant
Back when Harold Levinson first visited Downton, he came with loud opinions and American charm. He wasn’t a fan of British customs, but softened by the end of his stay. He met Madeleine Allsopp, grew fonder of Downton, and left with more than he expected. That storyline seemed finished until now.
Giamatti mentioned that he was shocked to be asked to return; he never thought Harold mattered that much in the bigger picture. Yet, this time, the character does something that shifts everything. While the details remain secret, Giamatti promises his return is not just for show.
