A ‘Downton Abbey’ Prequel in the Works

Nick Briggs/ITV for “Masterpiece” Hugh Bonneville as Robert, Earl of Grantham, and Elizabeth McGovern as Cora, Countess of Grantham.

How did the distinguished Earl of Grantham, Robert Crawley, hook up with the American Countess Cora? Did he marry for love or her inheritance?

Stay tuned. The “Downton Abbey” creator Julian Fellowes is writing a prequel that recounts how the couple first met, the BBC reported Friday.

While currently writing in book form, Mr. Fellowes said at the Bafta Screenwriters’ Lecture series, a TV adaptation is expected.

Now in its third season, the period drama has been a huge hit for ITV in Britain and for PBS in the United States, and ITV is interested in extending its success, the BBC said, though some lead characters may leave the show at the end of the current series.

The spinoff drama would feature a pair of younger actors in the roles — currently played by Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern —and would be broadcast after the end of “Downton Abbey.” The prequel may also take the drama to America.

Source & Image : New York Times