Dame Maggie Smith, a luminary of the British stage and screen, passed away at 89 after a storied career decorated with prestigious awards.
Breitbart reported that Smith, an icon of British acting acclaimed for her work across film and theatre, died on September 27, 2024. She breathed her last in a hospital, comforted by the presence of her loving family and close friends.
The news of her passing was conveyed by her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, who are both accomplished actors. They expressed their profound sadness through a heartfelt statement to the BBC. "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith," they said.
The statement continued, detailing the serene conditions of Smith's last moments. “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end,” the sons shared.
Remembered not just for her illustrious film roles but also her vibrant stage presence, Smith left a legacy that few can parallel. She won two Oscars and three Emmys, marking her indelible impact on both mediums.
Among her most celebrated roles was that of Professor McGonagall in the beloved "Harry Potter" series, captivating a global audience across all eight films. Her portrayal was both stern and warm, a complex character executed with finesse.
Maggie's remarkable flexibility shone through in her role as the Dowager Countess in "Downton Abbey." Here, she delivered some of the most memorable lines with a sharp wit that defined her character throughout the series, including the two follow-up films.
Her first Oscar came for "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" in 1969, establishing her as a leading actress of formidable talent. She claimed her second Oscar for "California Suite," where she starred opposite Michael Caine.
The range of her roles was vast, appearing in everything from "Travels with My Aunt" to "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" series. Each performance showcased Smith's unique ability to adapt and resonate with any character.
Returning to the stage regularly, Smith’s performances in plays like Peter Shaffer’s "Lettice and Lovage" won her a Tony Award in 1987. She beautifully commanded the stage, drawing audiences into her performances.
Her collaborations with prominent figures such as Laurence Olivier at London’s National Theater further solidified her status as a theatre legend. Here, Maggie often engaged with challenging plays, depicting aloof and alienated society ladies—roles that later informed her portrayal of similar characters in films.
Smith's personal life was as rich and varied as her career. She was married twice, first to actor Robert Stephens and then to playwright Beverly Cross; both of whom predeceased her.
Maggie Smith remained active in the film industry well into her late 60s, gaining accolades for her portrayal of spiky, elderly women. These roles endeared her to new generations of fans, particularly through her more recent work in the "Harry Potter" films and "Downton Abbey."
She leaves behind her two sons and five grandchildren, who remember her not just as a remarkable actress, but as an extraordinary mother and grandmother. Her legacy in the acting world is monumental, encompassing a breadth of roles that will continue to inspire actors and actresses for years to come.
Dame Maggie Smith's profound impact on the world of entertainment, characterized by her vast array of characters and profound talent, will be remembered and revered for many years to come. Her family, friends, and fans mourn her loss but celebrate the storied life and career of a true legend.