Renowned British actress Dame Maggie Smith, best known for her iconic roles in the Harry Potter series and Downton Abbey, has passed away at the age of 89. Her family confirmed that she died peacefully in the early hours of Friday, September 27th, surrounded by loved ones at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.
A towering figure in both British stage and screen, Dame Maggie’s career spanned eight decades, earning her two Academy Awards for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1970) and California Suite (1979), alongside numerous other accolades, including seven BAFTA awards.
A Tribute to an Unforgettable Talent
Prime Minister Keir Starmer led tributes, calling Dame Maggie a “true national treasure” whose immense talent will be cherished for generations. Co-stars and collaborators shared heartfelt memories, with Downton Abbey‘s Hugh Bonneville praising her “sharp wit and formidable talent,” while Dame Judi Dench and others remembered her unmatched brilliance and humor.
Career Highlights
Dame Maggie Smith first captured the public’s attention in 1958, earning her first BAFTA nomination for Nowhere to Go. Her distinguished career included roles in classic films like A Room With a View and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, as well as beloved modern roles like Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter.
Her final projects included The Miracle Club in 2023, where she starred alongside Kathy Bates and Laura Linney.
A Lasting Legacy
Dame Maggie leaves behind her two sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, and five grandchildren. Her sharp intelligence, wit, and unmatched talent have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, making her one of the greatest actors of her generation.
May Dame Maggie Smith rest in peace.
