Beloved for her roles in "Downton Abbey" and "Harry Potter," Dame Maggie Smith passed away peacefully at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances.
Her sons shared a heartfelt message expressing their grief, thanking hospital staff and highlighting Smith's private nature. She was surrounded by loved ones in her final moments.
Born in Ilford in 1934, Smith's family moved to Oxford during World War II, where her father worked at Oxford University. This period marked the beginning of her journey into acting.
After studying at Oxford Playhouse School, Maggie Smith made her stage debut in Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night," and later performed in Broadway’s "New Faces of 1956."
Smith's exceptional talent won her two Academy Awards, including Best Actress for “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and Best Supporting Actress for “California Suite.”
Her legendary career included iconic roles like Desdemona in "Othello" and Violet Crawley in "Downton Abbey," winning three Emmys for the latter.
7. Beloved by Younger Generations: Harry Potter Fame
Maggie Smith gained even wider recognition as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the "Harry Potter" series, captivating audiences of all ages.
8. Legacy of Grace and Wit in Later Life Smith was celebrated not only for her acting but also for aging gracefully. Her wit and charm remained, as she continued to inspire even in her final years.