‘Downton Abbey’ Cast Then and Now in 40+ Pics

Over more than a decade, the cast of "Downton Abbey" has grown up, moved on, and transformed in ways as striking as their storylines on screen.

In June 2025, the trailer for "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale" dropped, marking the cinematic return of the beloved global phenomenon.

The final chapter in the saga follows the Crawley family and their loyal staff as they step into the 1930s, navigating a rapidly changing world with the same elegance, scandal, and wit that made the original series a hit.

Many of the original cast members have returned to reprise their iconic roles, including Dominic West, Elizabeth McGovern, Joanne Froggatt, Hugh Bonneville, and more.

Their familiar faces instantly transport fans back to the grandeur of Highclere Castle and the layered lives lived above and below the stairs.

But while the world of "Downton Abbey" has evolved on screen, so have its stars in real life. It's been more than a decade since the show first premiered, introducing audiences to a cast that would soon become household names.

A lot has changed since then. Continue reading to see the then-and-now photos of some of the stars from the hit series.

Hugh Bonneville stepped out at The Specsavers Crime Thriller Awards in 2010 with a full salt-and-pepper beard and tousled hair, embracing a more rugged, understated look that echoed the early days of his role as Lord Grantham on "Downton Abbey."

At the September 2025 New York premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," Bonneville looked sharp and refreshed. Clean-shaven with neatly styled silver hair, he carried himself with the same quiet authority fans have long associated with the Crawley family patriarch.

Jessica Brown Findlay attended the Moet British Independent Film Awards in 2010 with long, straight hair and a fresh-faced glow. Her black skirt and embroidered white blouse reflected the refined simplicity that matched her early portrayal of Lady Sybil on "Downton Abbey."

At the Emilia Wickstead show during London Fashion Week in February 2025, Brown Findlay debuted a striking new look. With her hair styled in soft waves and dressed in bold geometric prints and tailored grey trousers, she exuded a confident, contemporary presence that marked her evolution both on and off screen.

Laura Carmichael attended the premiere of "Red" in 2010 with a fresh-faced look and casual styling. Her light makeup, side-swept hair, and warm-toned blazer over a sheer white blouse gave off a relaxed, girl-next-door charm that contrasted with the formality of her "Downton Abbey" character.

At the British Museum Ball in 2025, Carmichael stunned in a shimmering green gown with a sculpted neckline and a soft bob haircut. With glowing skin and a confident presence, she embraced a more glamorous, red carpet-ready persona, a far cry from her early days on the scene.

Jim Carter attended the RTS Programme Awards in 2010 with a dark suit, patterned vest, and signature slicked-back hair. His classic and reserved style mirrored the quiet strength and authority of his character, Mr. Carson, the dignified butler of "Downton Abbey."

At the 2025 world premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale" in London, Carter looked sharp in a blue checked blazer and lavender shirt. His silver hair and warm expression highlighted a sense of ease and familiarity, a decade removed from the strict formality of his on-screen persona.

Brendan Coyle appeared at the 2011 fundraising event for Merlin Medical Relief looking relaxed in a classic tuxedo and bow tie. With a youthful glow and signature charm, he embodied the steady, loyal energy that fans came to associate with his character, Mr. Bates, on "Downton Abbey."

In a 2019 stage production of Arthur Miller’s "The Price," Coyle embraced a grittier transformation as he took on the role of Victor Franz. Dressed in a police uniform and wearing a hardened expression, he showcased the intensity and depth of an actor who has continued to evolve well beyond the halls of Downton.

Michelle Dockery attended the RTS Programme Awards in 2011 with a natural, youthful look. Wearing a soft cream blouse and minimal makeup, she radiated quiet elegance — a fitting mirror to her breakout role as the poised and complex Lady Mary on "Downton Abbey."

At the 2025 New York premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," Dockery turned heads in a dazzling off-the-shoulder gown that highlighted her pregnancy glow. With side-swept curls and sparkling earrings, she embodied a confident and glamorous presence more than a decade after her debut in the role.

Siobhan Finneran appeared at the 2011 PBS TCA panel with a natural look and tousled brunette hair, dressed in a simple white blouse. Her laid-back style stood in contrast to the stern presence of her character, the no-nonsense housemaid Sarah O'Brien, on "Downton Abbey."

At the TV Choice Awards in 2025, Finneran stepped out with striking silver-blonde waves and a polished, modern ensemble. Her tailored velvet blazer, pinstriped shirt, and wide-leg trousers signaled a confident evolution in style, reflecting her continued presence in British television more than a decade after her Downton days.

Joanne Froggatt arrived at the RTS Programme Awards in 2010 with an elegant updo and smoky eye makeup, wearing a taupe wrap top and high-waisted black skirt. Her red carpet look had a soft glamour that subtly echoed her role as the quietly resilient Anna Bates on "Downton Abbey."

At the BAFTA TV Tea Party in 2025, Froggatt embraced a sleek and modern style. Wearing a black satin top with woven detailing and a structured white skirt, her straight,centre-parted hair and bold eye makeup reflected a confident, fashion-forward presence over a decade after her debut on the show.

Phyllis Logan attended the 2011 screening of "Christmas at Downton Abbey" in a black velvet coat over a metallic dress, accessorized with statement gloves and pearls. With her warm smile and voluminous auburn hair, she exuded charm while keeping things classic and festive.

At the 2025 London premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," Logan embraced old-Hollywood glamour with a modern twist. Wearing a voluminous satin skirt, polka-dot blouse, and pops of red in her clutch and shoes, she looked radiant with a tousled silver hairstyle and signature confidence.

Thomas Howes hit the red carpet at the ELLE Style Awards in 2012 with a youthful energy and clean-cut look. Dressed in an all-black suit and shirt, he kept things simple and relaxed while enjoying the spotlight during the early days of his "Downton Abbey" fame.

At the 2019 photocall for BBC One's "Gentleman Jack," Howes sported a similar classic look with a slightly more laid-back twist. His open-collar shirt and tousled hair gave off a mature, easygoing vibe that reflected how much he'd grown — both in style and in his acting career — since his Downton days.

Rob James-Collier appeared on "Watch What Happens Live" in 2013 looking youthful and clean-cut in a classic navy suit and skinny black tie. With his casual confidence and charming smile, he gave off an effortlessly polished vibe that matched his rising star status.

At the 2025 world premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," James-Collier showcased a more refined and mature presence. Sporting a rich velvet blazer and neatly groomed salt-and-pepper hair, he struck a balance between sophistication and relaxed charisma over a decade after first stepping into the role of Thomas Barrow.

Rose Leslie attended the 2010 premiere of "Red" with her signature red hair worn loose and natural. Dressed in a belted taupe wrap dress paired with a leather jacket and tights, she exuded effortless cool, reflecting the early stages of her rising career.

At the Louis Vuitton Menswear show during Paris Fashion Week in 2023, Leslie embraced a more refined and fashion-forward look. Wearing a structured black jacket with gold button detailing and tailored trousers, she radiated poise and sophistication, a decade removed from her "Downton Abbey" debut.

Elizabeth McGovern appeared on "Today" in 2012 with a classic, understated look. Her deep navy dress, softly curled bob, and bright red lipstick gave off timeless elegance, much like her portrayal of Cora Crawley on "Downton Abbey."

At the 2025 New York premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," McGovern made a bold style statement in a vibrant sequined gown with a hot pink top and orange skirt. With her hair slicked back and confidence radiating, she proved her fashion evolution has been just as striking as her career longevity.

Sophie McShera attended the 2011 Merlin Medical Relief charity event with a fresh-faced charm, wearing a playful white dress with ruffled shoulders. Her straight brunette hair and minimal makeup gave her a youthful, down-to-earth presence that contrasted her on-screen role as the kitchen maid Daisy.

At the 2025 world premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," McShera stunned in a strapless blush ball gown adorned with jeweled accents. With her long hair swept to one side and a bold red lip, she radiated elegance and confidence, a polished transformation more than a decade in the making.

Lesley Nicol posed during the 2010 BFI London Film Festival with her signature red hair styled softly and a cheerful smile. Wearing a grey scarf and leather jacket, she gave off a relaxed and approachable vibe far removed from her stern but lovable "Downton Abbey" character, Mrs. Patmore.

At the 2025 world premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," Nicol brought sparkle to the red carpet in a black sequined suit and matching clutch. With voluminous waves in a chic highlighted bob and a confident glow, she embodied seasoned elegance with a modern flair.

Maggie Smith attended the 2011 world premiere of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2" in London with her signature grace. Wearing a white silk coat with a silver scarf and carrying a textured clutch, she greeted fans with a warm wave, embodying the poise of a seasoned screen legend.

In one of her final public appearances at Wimbledon in 2023, Smith was seen arriving in a navy printed dress and coordinating long coat, her silver hair softly curled. Supported by companions, she remained elegant and dignified, leaving a lasting impression just before her passing in 2024.

Dan Stevens attended the 2011 Moet British Independent Film Awards with a clean-cut look, sporting a navy suit, dark shirt, and matching tie. With his neatly combed blonde hair and polished style, he looked every bit the rising star freshly launched into the spotlight by "Downton Abbey."

At the 2025 premiere of "Swiped," Stevens looked nearly unrecognizable with a bold, trend-forward style. Sporting longer hair, a moustache, glasses, and a single earring, he paired a casual green jacket with a white mesh shirt, showing just how far he's come in redefining his image since his early period drama days.

Penelope Wilton attended the Rainbow Trust's Silver Jubilee Ball in 2011 wearing a cream embroidered jacket and black trousers. With minimal jewellery and a natural makeup look, she radiated quiet poise and warmth — qualities reflected in her role as the steadfast Isobel Crawley.

At the 2025 New York premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," Wilton embraced bold patterns in a black-and-white printed blouse paired with flowing trousers. With her silver hair elegantly styled and her signature grace intact, she proved that timeless elegance only deepens with age.

Kevin Doyle attended the 2011 "An Evening with Downton Abbey" charity event in London with a polished, understated style. Wearing a black suit with a patterned tie and crisp white shirt, he brought the same steady presence offscreen that defined his role as the loyal Mr. Molesley.

At the 2025 New York premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," Doyle appeared in a textured navy suit and tonal tie. With a confident stance and relaxed demeanor, he embodied the evolution of both his character and career over more than a decade with the beloved series.

Allen Leech appeared on Watch What Happens Live in 2013 looking sharp in a navy suit and burgundy tie, with a crisp white pocket square adding a classic touch. His neatly styled hair and easy smile reflected the affable charm of his "Downton Abbey" character, Tom Branson, during the show's peak popularity.

At the 2025 New York premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," Leech brought red carpet sophistication in a velvet tuxedo with black satin lapels. His polished look and confident presence demonstrated how both he and his character have matured — from the chauffeur with radical views to a true gentleman of Downton.

Ed Speleers attended the 2011 premiere of "A Lonely Place to Die" in London looking fresh-faced and youthful in a classic black tuxedo with a white shirt and polka-dot tie. With tousled blonde hair and a boyish charm, he embodied the early promise of a rising star.

At the inaugural British Museum Ball in 2025, Speleers embraced a sharper edge, wearing a blush pink tuxedo jacket paired with a black shirt and oversized bow tie. With a more chiseled look and confident presence, he showcased the evolution from young heartthrob to seasoned actor.

Lily James attended the 2012 London premiere of "Fast Girls" in a slate gray gown with a plunging neckline and softly curled hair cascading over one shoulder. Her youthful glow and delicate drop earrings completed a look that hinted at the star power to come.

Onstage at the 2025 New York screening of "Swiped," James embraced a sleek, modern aesthetic in a sharply tailored black suit with bold lapels. Wearing her hair slicked back into a neat bun and minimal jewelry, she embodied quiet confidence and sophistication, reflecting her evolution into a leading lady.

Michael Fox attended the 2015 launch party for Cool Earth in London with a youthful, laid-back style. Wearing a simple navy crewneck and sporting a short, tousled haircut, he struck a casual figure far removed from the footman he would later portray on "Downton Abbey."

At the 2025 world premiere of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale" in London, Fox embraced a more refined and mature look. With a full beard, swept-back hair, and layered silver jewelry over a white tee and black suit, he projected the confident polish of a seasoned actor.

Dominic West attended the 2019 British Independent Film Awards in a classic navy suit paired with a crisp white shirt and no tie. With his hands casually in his pockets and a relaxed smile, he exuded the charm and confidence of a seasoned performer at ease on the red carpet.

At the 2025 Albies hosted by the Clooney Foundation for Justice, West looked sharp in a traditional black tuxedo with a pleated white shirt and bow tie. Posing on the red carpet outside London's Natural History Museum, he brought a dignified presence to the evening celebrating global justice advocates.

Simon Russell Beale attended the Whatsonstage.com Awards Concert Launch on December 3, 2010, in London, England, wearing a black overcoat and scarf. With his signature silver beard and friendly demeanor, he posed warmly for photos at the theater-focused fan-voted event.

At the 75th Annual Tony Awards on June 12, 2022, in New York, Beale beamed while holding his Tony Award, dressed in a sleek black suit. The celebrated actor's joy was palpable as he was honored for his continued excellence on stage.

Alessandro Nivola attended the premiere of "Who Do You Love" in 2010 in New York wearing a classic dark blazer over an open-collared striped shirt. With his short-cropped hair and understated style, he projected quiet confidence and emerging-star charm.

At the 2025 GQ Men of the Year party in Los Angeles, Nivola embraced a more relaxed but refined look. Wearing a cream corduroy suit over a beige sweater and striped shirt, he topped off the ensemble with tousled hair and a subtle smile, showing the evolution of his personal style.

Joely Richardson attended The Orange British Academy Film Awards 2010 on February 21 in London, England, in a midnight-blue satin gown with embellished straps and a structured neckline. Her look, completed with dangling earrings, a metallic clutch, and an elegant updo, was pure old-Hollywood glamour.

Richardson embraced vintage flair at the opening night of “Othello” on November 27, 2025, in London, England. Dressed in a wine-colored velvet suit paired with a patterned tie and striped shirt, she wore her long silver-blonde hair loose, exuding timeless confidence and a bohemian spirit.

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