Dame Maggie Smith, the beloved actress from Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, has passed away at the age of 89.
Her family announced the news with heavy hearts.
Maggie Smith was a true legend of British cinema and theater. Throughout her illustrious career, she won two Academy Awards. She earned her first Oscar for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1970 and her second for California Suite in 1979. Additionally, she received four more Oscar nominations, showcasing her immense talent. Her accolades include eight BAFTA awards, highlighting her impact on the film industry.
In the Harry Potter series, Dame Maggie portrayed the sharp-tongued Professor Minerva McGonagall.
Her character became iconic, known for her pointed witch’s hat and stern demeanor with Hogwarts’ young witches and wizards. This role endeared her to a new generation of fans.
Moreover, in the popular ITV drama Downton Abbey, she played Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham. This character captivated audiences with her witty comebacks and commanding presence throughout the show’s six seasons. Maggie’s performance in both roles solidified her status as a cultural icon.
A heartfelt statement from her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, conveyed their sorrow: “It is with great sadness we announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, September 27th. As an intensely private person, she was surrounded by friends and family at the end. She leaves behind two sons and five grandchildren, who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
They further expressed gratitude for the care she received. “We thank the wonderful staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their kindness during her final days. We also appreciate the kind messages and support we have received, and we ask for privacy at this time.”
Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike.
Hugh Bonneville, her co-star in Downton Abbey, praised her remarkable talent. He remarked, “Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie can attest to her sharp eye, quick wit, and formidable talent. She was a true legend of her generation and will live on through her magnificent performances. My condolences to her family.”
Among her many memorable roles, Maggie Smith also starred in the 1985 film A Room With a View. In this Merchant Ivory classic, she played Charlotte Bartlett, the chaperone for Helen Bonham Carter’s character, Lucy Honeychurch. Her portrayal earned her nominations for both an Oscar and a Golden Globe, showcasing her versatility.
Smith began her career on the stage, capturing the attention of audiences early on.
She received her first BAFTA nomination in the 1958 film Nowhere to Go. By 1963, she had secured a role as Desdemona, opposite Laurence Olivier’s Othello, at the National Theatre. This collaboration later transitioned into a film, with Smith earning an Oscar nomination for her performance.
Dame Maggie Smith’s contributions to film and theater have left an indelible mark. Her talent and charisma made her one of the most revered actresses of her time. As we remember her legacy, we celebrate the remarkable body of work she leaves behind, inspiring future generations of actors and audiences alike. Maggie Smith will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who admired her art.