(Photos: Getty Images)

The beloved Downton Abbey series was made into a movie in 2019. And, now it's getting a sequel. According to Deadline, we can look for the follow-up film later this year on December 22.

Production began just last week, with DA favorites returning, including Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Imelda Staunton and Maggie Smith. When there was first talk of a movie, Smith was not so keen on it... we're glad she changed her mind.

It's not just the principle cast. We can also look for new additions, made-up of familiar faces like Dominic West (The Affair), Hugh Dancy (Hannibal), Laura Haddock (Luther) and Nathalie Baye (Nox).

Producer Gareth Neame released a statement about the forthcoming production, saying, "After a very challenging year with so many of us separated from family and friends, it is a huge comfort to think that better times are ahead and that next Christmas we will be re-united with the much beloved characters of Downton Abbey."

In case you missed it, here's a peek at a trailer for the first movie, where the Crawleys get a royal visit:

The storyline for Downton Abbey 2 has yet to be announced, but we're pretty confident we can expect some surprises from DA creator Julian Fellowes, who is set to write the screenplay.

Are you ready for more Downton Abbey?