Dame Maggie Smith, one of the most prolific British actresses of her generation whose career spanned seven decades, passed away at 89. Her impressive filmography includes two Oscar-winning roles, in addition to iconic performances in Downton Abbey and Harry Potter.
Smith’s sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin released a joint statement to the British media announcing her passing, which read, “An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
Smith has been acting since the 50s, and she’s the recipient of the Triple Crown of Acting for her work on screen and stage. She established herself as one of the most significant British theatre performers, while also building a successful film career, winning two Oscars for roles in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and California Suite.
Smith was introduced to a whole new generation of fans while playing Professor Minerva McGonagall from the Harry Potter films and later experienced somewhat of a career renaissance with the Emmy-winning role in Downton Abbey. Her notable credits also include such films as Hook, Sister Act, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, A Room with a View, and Gosford Park.