Leitrim family celebrates granddaughter’s role in Downtown Abbey Finale

A Cloone family is celebrating a proud moment after eight-year-old Esme Creegan, granddaughter of Ursula Creegan and daughter of Cloone native Brian Creegan, landed a role in the grand finale of the world-famous Downton Abbey series. Esme was chosen to play Lady Mary’s daughter, Caroline, in the final Downton Abbey movie, filmed last year across the UK. Since its release, Ursula has proudly watched the film four times, beaming as she sees her granddaughter on the big screen.

“She was picked through a London agency her school had sent her to,” Ursula explained. “They were looking for a child for the part, and Esme was the one chosen. Her dad took time off work to drive her over for filming — sometimes they stayed in hotels for three or four days at a time depending on the shoot.”

Ursula said Esme has shown an interest in performance from an early age and attends drama classes regularly.“She goes all the time and really enjoys it,” she said. “It’s something she’s always loved, and when the chance came up for the Downton Abbey role, she was delighted.”

Most of the filming took place in Berkshire and the London studios, with additional scenes in Yorkshire. “It was a big experience for her,” Ursula said. “But she’s a very pleasant youngster. She doesn’t get flustered or carried away with the fame — she just takes it all in her stride.” 

The Downton Abbey movie, which premiered in London on September 5th, marks the end of the beloved series. Dame Maggie Smith, who played the Dowager Countess of Grantham, did not return for the finale. “This was the final curtain for Downton Abbey, but who knows what the future will hold for her — we don’t ask an eight-year-old that question,” Ursula added. “We’re all very proud. She’s a bright little girl, full of confidence, and she loves what she’s doing.”

Downton Abbey The Grand Finale is now streaming on Netflix.