Downton Abbey prequel plans revealed by Julian Fellowes

The Downton Abbey creator has revealed he is working on a prequel about Lord and Lady Grantham's courtship

Downton Abbey creator Julien Fellowes has revealed plans for a prequel, to explain how the Earl and Countess of Grantham first met.

According to reports, the Fellowes has already begun working on the spin-off story, which charts the romance between Lord Grantham and his American wife.

ON-SET PICS: DOWNTON ABBEY SERIES 3

Speaking at a Bafta Screenwriting Lecture, the Downton Abbey creator said: 'I do actually have an idea of doing a prequel of the courtship of Robert and Cora, when all those American heiresses were arriving in London - the Buccaneers, as they were called.

'They had a slightly troubled courtship, because she was in love with him before they married, as we know, and he married her entirely for her money.

'I sort of feel there’s something quite nice in there because he’s a decent cove, and so he feels rather guilty about this.'

But although Fellowes has already started penning the Downton Abbey follow up, we won't be seeing it on our screens just yet.

Instead he said it will probably begin after Downton Abbey ends.

'I don’t think you can continue a narrative in more than one area at once,' he explained.

'I never really liked those Coronation Street Christmas specials where they all go to Haiti, and you don’t have to watch it. Somehow it doesn’t feel very organic.'

Watch this space!

What are your thoughts on plans for a Downton Abbey prequel? Will you watch? Let us know in the comments box below…

ON-SET PICS: DOWNTON ABBEY SERIES 3

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