The world mourns the loss of Dame Maggie Smith, the iconic actress known for her unforgettable roles in “Harry Potter” and “Downton Abbey.” Smith passed away peacefully in hospital, surrounded by friends and family. She was 89.
Smith’s illustrious career spanned nearly seven decades, earning her two Academy Awards for her performances in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” (1969) and “California Suite” (1978). She also won four Emmy Awards, including three for her role as the sharp-witted Dowager Countess of Grantham in “Downton Abbey”12.
Born on December 28, 1934, in Ilford, East London, Smith’s journey in acting began at the Oxford Playhouse School. She quickly rose to prominence, becoming a staple in British theatre and cinema. Her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” series endeared her to a new generation of fans12.
Smith’s sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, released a statement expressing their profound grief: “It is with great sadness we announce the death of our extraordinary mother. She was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many with her talent and kindness. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come”2.
Helen Mirren, who worked with Smith on “Gosford Park,” remarked, “It’s a very sad day for the whole culture of theater and cinema in England. Maggie was a true legend, and her contributions to the arts are immeasurable”1.
Smith’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will live on through her extensive body of work and the countless lives she touched with her performances. She is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren, who remember her not just as a brilliant actress, but as a loving mother and grandmother.
