The last episode of Downton Abbey, a period drama that captivated audiences worldwide with its portrayal of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the early 20th century, was the 2015 Christmas Special. This festive episode served as the grand finale for the series, resolving numerous storylines and offering a glimpse into the characters’ futures as the roaring twenties approached.
The Grand Finale: “A Moorland Holiday”
The Christmas Special, titled “A Moorland Holiday,” aired on December 25, 2015, in the UK and on March 6, 2016, in the US. The episode centered around Rose’s presentation to the Queen at Buckingham Palace, a prestigious event that drew many of the Downton Abbey regulars to London. However, the episode was far more than just a simple celebratory gathering; it was about tying up loose ends and offering a sense of closure to the numerous character arcs that had unfolded over six seasons.
The Core Plotlines Resolved
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Anna and Bates’s Family: After years of longing and hardship, Anna finally gives birth to a healthy baby boy. This was a significant moment of joy for the couple and the entire Downton household, representing a much-deserved happy ending after their many tribulations.
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Edith’s Happiness: Edith, who had faced considerable heartbreak and societal stigma throughout the series, finally finds happiness with Bertie Pelham, the Marquess of Hexham. Their marriage cements her place in society and provides her with the love and security she craved.
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Mary’s Maturation: Mary continues to navigate her role as the estate’s mistress and reconciles with her sister Edith, demonstrating a significant shift in their often-contentious relationship. Her journey shows a growth from the headstrong, somewhat selfish individual of earlier seasons to a more responsible and compassionate woman.
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Thomas Barrow’s Redemption: Thomas, the often-manipulative under-butler, experiences a period of depression and attempted suicide. While this was a dark moment, it ultimately leads to a positive turn when he is offered the position of butler at a neighboring estate, allowing him to use his skills and find genuine purpose.
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The Changing Times: The episode subtly emphasizes the changing times and the challenges faced by the aristocracy in a rapidly modernizing world. While Downton Abbey remains a symbol of tradition, the finale acknowledges the need for adaptation and change.
Behind the Scenes: Creating the Finale
The creators of Downton Abbey understood the importance of delivering a satisfying conclusion to their beloved series. Julian Fellowes, the creator and writer, aimed to provide a sense of resolution for the characters while remaining true to the historical context and the essence of the show.
The Writer’s Vision
Fellowes has spoken extensively about his desire to end the series on a high note, ensuring that the characters were left in a plausible and hopeful state. He wanted to avoid dramatic cliffhangers or unresolved plotlines that would leave viewers feeling unsatisfied. The goal was to create a finale that felt both earned and authentic to the characters’ journeys.
The Actors’ Perspective
The cast of Downton Abbey also played a crucial role in bringing the finale to life. Their performances were imbued with a sense of nostalgia and closure, reflecting the years they had spent portraying these beloved characters. Many actors expressed a bittersweet feeling about the series ending, acknowledging the impact it had on their lives and careers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Downton Abbey’s Last Episode
FAQ 1: Did Matthew Crawley Appear in the Finale?
No, Dan Stevens, who played Matthew Crawley, did not appear in the series finale. His character tragically died in a car accident in the Christmas Special that concluded Season 3. His absence was deeply felt, but his story had already reached its conclusion.
FAQ 2: What Happened to Lady Sybil’s Husband, Tom Branson?
Tom Branson continued to play a significant role in the final season and episode. He remained involved in the management of Downton Abbey and ultimately found a new love interest. In the finale, it’s implied he and Miss Edmunds will pursue a relationship. He finds a sense of belonging and purpose within the Crawley family, despite his initial outsider status.
FAQ 3: Did Mrs. Hughes and Mr. Carson’s Relationship Work Out?
Yes, Mrs. Hughes and Mr. Carson’s relationship remained strong throughout the series and in the finale. However, Mr. Carson experiences a health issue affecting his hand, creating uncertainty about his ability to perform his duties. Ultimately, Thomas Barrow returns to Downton, ensuring Carson’s legacy is safe.
FAQ 4: What Was the Biggest Change at Downton Abbey by the Finale?
The biggest change was the gradual acceptance of modernity and the shrinking divide between the aristocracy and the working class. While Downton Abbey still maintained its traditions, there was a growing recognition of the need to adapt to the changing times. Also, the estate became more reliant on new income streams and alternative business models.
FAQ 5: Was There a Time Jump in the Finale?
The finale takes place around Christmas 1925, which is a time jump from the events of the previous episodes in Season 6. This allows the writers to showcase the characters’ lives a bit further down the line and provide a more conclusive ending.
FAQ 6: What happened to Isobel Crawley in the final episode?
Isobel Crawley married Lord Merton despite his son’s initial objections. Her happiness and fulfillment are depicted in the finale, cementing her role as a vital and compassionate member of the Downton community.
FAQ 7: Why Did Downton Abbey End When It Did?
The show ended due to a combination of factors, including Julian Fellowes’ desire to move on to other projects and the natural conclusion of the storylines. Many of the actors were also ready to explore new roles. It was felt that the series had reached a natural ending point and that continuing it indefinitely would risk diminishing its quality.
FAQ 8: Was there an alternate ending ever considered?
While specific alternate endings are not widely discussed, Julian Fellowes has mentioned exploring various possibilities during the writing process. However, the core elements of the finale, such as Edith’s marriage and Anna’s baby, were always intended to be part of the concluding episode.
FAQ 9: How Did The Finale Impact the Legacy of Downton Abbey?
The finale solidified Downton Abbey’s legacy as one of the most beloved and successful period dramas of all time. It provided a satisfying conclusion that resonated with viewers and ensured that the show would be remembered fondly for years to come. Its success paved the way for subsequent historical dramas.
FAQ 10: Is there any indication that the series could ever be revived?
While a full series revival seems unlikely, the success of the Downton Abbey films suggests that there is still a strong appetite for the characters and world of Downton. However, any future projects would likely need to be carefully considered to maintain the integrity of the original series.
FAQ 11: Were all the characters storylines completed by the end of the series?
While most storylines were resolved, some were left open-ended to some extent, allowing for a degree of interpretation and imagination on the part of the viewers. This was intentional, as it reflected the realities of life and the fact that not everything can be neatly tied up.
FAQ 12: How did audiences react to the finale?
The finale received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. Many praised the satisfying resolutions to the characters’ storylines and the emotional depth of the episode. While some felt that certain aspects were overly sentimental, the overall consensus was that the finale provided a fitting and memorable end to the series. The high ratings garnered by the episode also indicate widespread audience satisfaction.