Acclaimed Actress Maggie Smith Passes Away at 89, Leaving Behind Legendary Career and Legacy
Maggie Smith, the acclaimed actress renowned for her roles in "Harry Potter" and "Downton Abbey," passed away at 89 after a remarkable 70-year career. Her family announced her peaceful death in hospital, expressing their deep sorrow. Smith, celebrated for her sharp wit, leaves behind two sons and five grandchildren, alongside a legacy of memorable performances and accolades, including two Academy Awards.
Maggie Smith, the renowned actress best known for her role as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series, has passed away at the age of 89. With a remarkable career spanning 70 years in theater and film, her contributions to the arts have left an indelible mark.
Maggie Smith’s Career and Early Life
Born Margaret Natalie Smith in December 1934 in Ilford, Essex, she was the daughter of a Scottish secretary and a pathologist. At the age of four, her family relocated to Oxford following her father's appointment at the university. Smith began her acting journey at the Oxford Playhouse, leaving school to pursue her passion. Her early career highlights include her role as Viola in Twelfth Night and appearances in productions like Cinderella and The Government Inspector. In 1957, she starred alongside Kenneth Williams in the musical comedy Share My Lettuce, leading to her involvement in prominent plays at the Old Vic theatre, including The Rehearsal and Mary, Mary.
Broadway Success and Major Film Roles
Maggie Smith's talents were soon recognized by renowned actor Laurence Olivier, who invited her to join his National Theatre Company. She made her film debut in 1958 in Nowhere to Go, but it was her Oscar-winning performance in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie that cemented her status as an international star. Throughout her career, she appeared in a variety of productions, winning a Tony Award for her role in Private Lives on Broadway and receiving a second Academy Award for her performance in California Suite. Smith had notable roles in popular comedies like Sister Act and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, showcasing her versatility and charm.
Her Iconic Role in Downton Abbey and Personal Life
In addition to her film success, Maggie Smith won three Emmys for her portrayal of Violet Crawley in the beloved series Downton Abbey. Her sharp wit and memorable one-liners made her a fan favorite throughout the series' run and its subsequent films. On the personal front, she married actor Robert Stephens in 1967, having two sons, actors Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, before their divorce in 1975. Later, she married playwright Beverley Cross in 1975 until his passing in 1998. Smith bravely faced health challenges, including treatments for Graves' disease and breast cancer, from which she fully recovered.
Legacy and Tributes
Maggie Smith was honored as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1990 and became a Companion of Honour in 2014 for her significant contributions to the arts. Her sons released an emotional statement announcing her passing, highlighting her love for her family and appreciation for the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. They expressed gratitude for the care she received in her final days and requested privacy during this difficult time. Maggie Smith's legacy remains, as her performances continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
