Maggie Smith, the venerable British actress whose career on stage, film and television spanned more than 60 years, has died. She was 89.
Her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, confirmed she had died in a statement to the Press Association.
Having appeared in more than 50 films, Smith was considered one of Britain’s best known actresses and was beloved by recent generations for her roles as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” films and the Dowager Countess of Grantham on television’s “Downton Abbey.”
Actress Dame Maggie Smith arrives at the Royal Film Performance and World Premiere of the film, “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”, in London Feb. 17, 2015.
Peter Nicholls/Reuters
British actress Dame Maggie Smith poses in London, Dec. 16, 2015.
Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP
In addition to winning two Academy Awards, Smith earned five BAFTA Awards, four Emmy Awards, three Golden Globes, five Screen Actors Guild Awards and a Tony Award. In 1990, she was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Born in Ilford, Essex, Smith moved with her family to Oxford when she was 4 years old. Her father, a public health pathologist, worked at Oxford University. Smith attended Oxford High School until age 16 when she left to study acting at the Oxford Playhouse.
In 1952, she made her stage debut with the Oxford University Drama Society. A decade later, she was acting opposite Laurence Olivier.
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British actress Dame Maggie Smith, known for her iconic roles in film, television, and stage, has passed away at the age of 89. The news of her death has left fans and the entertainment industry in mourning, as she was a beloved figure known for her incredible talent and unforgettable performances.
Dame Maggie Smith’s career spanned over six decades, during which she garnered numerous accolades and awards for her work. She was perhaps best known for her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter film series, where she brought to life the stern yet caring Hogwarts professor with her trademark wit and charm. Her portrayal of the character endeared her to audiences of all ages and solidified her status as a cultural icon.
In addition to her work in the Harry Potter films, Dame Maggie Smith also had a successful career on stage and screen. She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress for her performances in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and “California Suite,” and received numerous other nominations for her work in films such as “Gosford Park” and “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.” On television, she starred in the critically acclaimed series “Downton Abbey,” where she played the sharp-tongued Dowager Countess of Grantham.
Throughout her career, Dame Maggie Smith was known for her versatility as an actress, able to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles with ease. Her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters made her a standout talent in the industry, and she will be remembered as one of the greatest actresses of her generation.
In addition to her impressive body of work, Dame Maggie Smith was also known for her wit and humor off-screen. Her quick wit and sharp tongue endeared her to fans and colleagues alike, and she was often the life of the party at industry events and award shows.
Dame Maggie Smith’s passing is a great loss to the entertainment world, but her legacy will live on through her timeless performances and the impact she had on generations of fans. She will be remembered as a true talent and a beloved figure in the industry, and her contributions to film, television, and stage will continue to inspire future generations of actors and actresses.
Rest in peace, Dame Maggie Smith. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
