Dame Maggie Smith passes away aged 89

Dame Maggie Smith, the iconic British actress known for her unforgettable roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, has died at the age of 89, according to her family. Smith’s illustrious career spanned more than six decades, making her one of the most respected figures in the world of acting. She won two Academy Awards: one for her portrayal in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1970 and another for California Suite in 1979. In addition to her two Oscar wins, Smith was nominated for four other Academy Awards and earned seven Bafta awards for her extraordinary work on stage and screen.

Leading tributes to Dame Maggie, Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised her as a “true national treasure,” whose work will be remembered for generations. Smith’s career was defined by her versatility and depth, whether she was playing the sharp-tongued Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter or delivering withering one-liners as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in Downton Abbey. These roles endeared her to fans worldwide and solidified her place in popular culture.

In a statement from her sons, actors Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, they expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of their mother, who passed away peacefully in a London hospital. They thanked the hospital staff for their kindness during her final days. Describing her as intensely private, they shared that she was surrounded by friends and family at the time of her death. Dame Maggie leaves behind a lasting legacy, not only as an actress of immense talent but as a beloved mother and grandmother. Her passing marks the end of an era in British film and theatre, though her performances will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.

Music by Yevhen Onoychenko from Pixabay