It's official! The Downton Abbey movie is happening!

New York — Three years after going off the air, Downton Abbey is coming back as a movie.

Focus Features said Friday that it will this summer begin production on a Downton film that will reunite the Crawley family on the big screen. Series creator Julian Fellowes wrote the screenplay and will produce.

The long-rumoured film adaptation is likely to be released sometime next year. The primary cast members are all set to return.

SEE THE TWEET HERE:

Welcome back to Downton! We’re thrilled to announce that #DowntonAbbey is coming to the big screen. Film production begins this summer. pic.twitter.com/3scMUmosic

— Downton Abbey (@DowntonAbbey) July 13, 2018

Over six seasons, Downton Abbey became a global hit, airing in at least 150 countries, and setting a record for non-U.S. television shows with 69 Emmy nominations.

Brian Percival, who directed the series' pilot, will direct the film.

Joanne Froggatt who plays Anna Bates responded to the news on Instagram. Alongside a photo she wrote: "Are you as excited as us about the Downton movie?! #itsofficial #downtonabbey". 

SEE THE POST HERE:

Are you as excited as us about the Downton movie?! #itsofficial #downtonabbey

A post shared by Joanne Froggatt (@jofroggatt) on Jul 13, 2018 at 6:11am PDT