Dame Maggie Smith, the celebrated actress known for her unforgettable roles in the Harry Potter series and Downton Abbey. She has passed away at the age of 89. Her family confirmed the news, stating that she died peacefully on Friday, September 27, surrounded by loved ones.
Smith’s career spanned eight decades. During this time, she won two Academy Awards. She received the first for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1970, the second for California Suite in 1979. She received six additional Oscar nominations and seven BAFTA awards, marking her as a titan of stage and screen.
A Career That Defined British Cinema
Dame Maggie Smith was a national treasure. She was praised not only for her versatility but for her ability to breathe life into every character she portrayed. She became a household name with her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter franchise. This role is beloved by fans around the world.
Her other iconic role as Violet Crawley, the sharp-tongued Dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey, brought her global recognition. She reprised this role for two feature films. One of these films is Downton Abbey: A New Era in 2022. Her character’s death in this film moved fans worldwide.
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Tributes From Co-Stars and Public Figures
Prime Minister Keir Starmer led the tributes. He said, “Dame Maggie was a true national treasure.” Her work will be cherished for generations. Fellow Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville echoed these sentiments. He called her a “legend of her generation.” He expressed admiration for her unparalleled talent.
Kristin Scott Thomas worked alongside Dame Maggie in Keeping Mum and My Old Lady. She remembered her as “serious about her craft.” She had a humor that could bring the cast to fits of laughter. Rob Lowe, who appeared with her in Suddenly, Last Summer, recalled the “unforgettable experience” of working with her.
A Legacy of Unmatched Craft
Dame Maggie Smith’s career began in the 1950s. Her first major acclaim came from a BAFTA nomination for Nowhere to Go in 1958. In 1963, Sir Laurence Olivier cast her as Desdemona in Othello. This marked the start of a long and illustrious stage and film career. Over the decades, she brought to life iconic characters. These include films like A Room With a View, Tea with Mussolini, and The Lady in the Van.
In a heartfelt statement, her sons expressed their gratitude to the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital staff. Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin thanked the staff. They appreciated the staff’s care and kindness during Dame Maggie’s final days. They also asked for privacy as the family grieves.
Final Roles and Everlasting Impact of Dame Maggie Smith
Dame Maggie’s final film appearance was in The Miracle Club (2023), where she co-starred with Kathy Bates and Laura Linney. Her sharp wit, remarkable versatility, and extraordinary craft will ensure that her work continues to inspire future generations.
Her passing marks the end of an era. Dame Maggie Smith’s contributions to cinema, theater, and television will live on.
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