27-9-2024 (LONDON) Dame Maggie Smith, the iconic British actress whose illustrious career spanned seven decades, has passed away at the age of 89. The news of her death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and beyond, as fans and fellow actors mourn the loss of one of Britain’s most cherished performers.
The two-time Oscar winner, renowned for her roles in the Harry Potter series and Downton Abbey, died peacefully in hospital on Friday, 27th September. Her sons, actors Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, announced her passing in a heartfelt statement, describing their mother as “an intensely private person” who was surrounded by friends and family in her final moments.
Dame Maggie’s extraordinary talent and versatility were evident throughout her remarkable career. She first rose to prominence in the theatre, earning critical acclaim for her performances in various Shakespearean productions. Her transition to the silver screen was equally successful, with her portrayal of the titular character in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” (1969) earning her first Academy Award for Best Actress.
A decade later, Smith secured her second Oscar for her supporting role in “California Suite” (1978), cementing her status as one of the most accomplished actresses of her generation. Her ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama made her a favourite among directors and audiences alike.
In recent years, Dame Maggie endeared herself to a new generation of fans with her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter film series and her sharp-tongued Dowager Countess in the period drama Downton Abbey. These roles showcased her impeccable timing and wit, traits that had become her trademark over the years.
Throughout her career, Smith received numerous accolades, including five BAFTAs, three Golden Globes, and four Primetime Emmy Awards. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1990 for her services to the performing arts.
As news of her passing spread, tributes poured in from across the globe. Sir Ian McKellen, her long-time friend and colleague, described her as “a force of nature” and “one of the greatest actors of our time”. Helen Mirren called her “an inspiration to generations of actors”, while Hugh Bonneville, her Downton Abbey co-star, praised her “razor-sharp wit and unparalleled professionalism”.
Dame Maggie’s sons expressed their gratitude to the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and kindness during her final days. They also requested privacy as they come to terms with the loss of their “extraordinary mother and grandmother”.
