Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes has said he’s happy to say goodbye to the series while fans still want more.

The cast are currently filming the sixth and final series of the period drama.

Vulture quoted Julian as saying: “Originally, we had thought in terms of five years, and then we realised we didn’t have enough space to wrap everyone up, and so it seemed a good idea to do one more.

Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery), Lady Cora (Elizabeth McGovern) and Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael)
Lady Mary, Lady Cora and Lady Edith Crawley (Carnival Films)

“We didn’t ever think we were going to go on to 11 years, and I think it’s good that people are sorry rather than thrilled.”

Star Hugh Bonneville – Lord Grantham in the ITV drama – added: “We were all optioned for three and then we decided to do five.

“Julian said he wanted one more crack of the whip to bring the stories and characters to an end in a satisfying way.”

Downton Abbey ends with an eight-episode series and a Christmas special this year.

But Julian recently admitted: “I haven’t written the finale yet.”