If you think Robert (Hugh Bonneville) and Cora (Elizabeth McGovern) have too much drama in their lives now, just wait until you find out how they got together! Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes recently revealed plans to write a prequel to his hit series, focusing on the origin of Robert and Cora’s relationship. “They had a slightly troubled courtship,” Julian admits. “He was in love with him before they married, as we know, and he married her entirely for her money.”

“I sort of feel there’s something quite nice in there because he’s a decent cove,” Julian adds. “And so he feels rather guilty about this which has affected their marriage beyond that.”

But don’t hold your breath for a TV adaptation; Julian says that if his prequel makes its way onto the small screen, it won’t be until Downton Abbey ends its run.

“I don’t think you can continue a narrative in more than one area at once,” he says.

Meanwhile, the third season series of Downton Abbey is currently airing in the UK and will arrive in the U.S. in January.

What do you think, Downton Abbey fans? Do you want to know more about Robert and Cora’s courtship? And which actors — a British man and an American lady — would you cast in their respective roles? Drop us a comment with your thoughts!

— Andy Swift

Follow @AndySwift

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1. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 3 Trailers Reveal New Couples & New Tragedies
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3. ‘Downton Abbey’ Season 3: Four Spoilers From The New Trailer