Hugh Bonneville, known for playing in the Paddington films, has suggested the series will go on with a new cast, and he’s also shared his thoughts on whether he’ll return to Downton Abbey after its final film.
The actor known for playing Mr. Brown in the popular family movies doesn’t expect to be back for future installments. However, he believes the story will continue smoothly, as the main character is the bear.
When asked about returning to the role of Paddington, he told Saga Magazine he likely wouldn’t. He explained that while he’s enjoyed playing the character, he feels he’s getting too old for it.
He admitted the role was better suited for someone younger, but believed other actors could still pull it off successfully, as the focus was always on the bear itself.
Bonneville also mentioned that Downton Abbey might continue beyond the recent movie, The Grand Finale, despite it being promoted as the end of the series. However, he confirmed he wouldn’t be involved in any future installments.
He admitted a spin-off is possible, but clarified that his company is no longer involved in the project.
He explained that the Grand Finale truly marked the end of an era. As filming wrapped up, he made a point of memorizing each set – like the library – knowing he wouldn’t see them again.
The first Paddington film, featuring Hugh Bonneville, Ben Whishaw, Sally Hawkins, and Julie Walters, came out in 2014 and won the award for best film at the 2015 BAFTA Children’s Awards.
The film has already had two follow-up movies, released in 2017 and 2024, and a third is planned to celebrate the character’s 70th anniversary.
In a February interview with Deadline, StudioCanal’s Anna Marsh shared that they’re planning a fourth film in the series, along with a TV show and a stage production.
She confirmed they’re planning a fourth movie. They’re also developing future films, a new TV series, and a musical for the stage, in collaboration with Sonia Friedman and Eliza Lumley.
Authors
Molly Moss writes about the newest trends in television, movies, and other entertainment for TopMob. She has a master’s degree in journalism and has contributed to major publications like The Guardian, The Times, and The Sun Online.
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2026-01-19 16:10