Dame Maggie Smith, the beloved actress renowned for her roles in *Harry Potter* and *Downton Abbey*, has passed away at the age of 89. Her family announced the news on September 27, stating she died peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by friends and loved ones.
In their heartfelt statement, her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens expressed gratitude for the care she received at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and noted that she leaves behind two sons and five grandchildren who are deeply saddened by her loss. They asked for privacy during this difficult time and thanked the public for their support.
Fans and admirers took to social media to share their grief and reminisce about her remarkable talent. One fan expressed disbelief at the news, while others reflected on the significant impact her performances had on their lives, highlighting her status as one of the greats in acting.
Maggie Smith’s illustrious career spanned decades, earning her numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, five BAFTA Awards, four Emmy Awards, three Golden Globes, and a Tony Award. She first gained critical acclaim for her role as Jean Brodie in *The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie* (1969), which won her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
She is perhaps best remembered for portraying Professor Minerva McGonagall in the *Harry Potter* series, a role she continued even while battling breast cancer. Maggie also gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in *Downton Abbey*, a role she reprised in the show’s film adaptations.
Her passing marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching her performances. She will be remembered not only for her exceptional talent but also for her contributions to the arts as a whole.