Dame Maggie Smith, star of Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, dies at 89

Dame Maggie Smith

Dame Maggie Smith, the legendary British actress known for her iconic roles in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey, has passed away at the age of 89, her family confirmed.

Smith, who portrayed Professor Minerva McGonagall in the beloved Harry Potter series, died peacefully in a hospital on Friday morning, surrounded by friends and family.

Her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, shared the heartbreaking news in a statement issued through publicist Clair Dobbs. They expressed deep sorrow, saying, “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.”

Maggie Smith's career spanned over six decades, making her one of the most respected and versatile actresses in British cinema and television. While younger audiences knew her best as the sharp-witted Professor McGonagall in Harry Potter, her extensive body of work earned her critical acclaim in various other roles.

She became equally beloved for her portrayal of the witty and formidable Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess, in Downton Abbey, a role that garnered her international recognition and several awards.

Born on December 28, 1934, Smith’s illustrious career began in theater, where she established herself as a powerful stage actress. She won two Academy Awards during her lifetime—first for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969) and later for California Suite (1978). Her ability to transition effortlessly between stage, television, and film made her a true acting legend.

Fans and colleagues around the world are mourning her loss, remembering the impact of her performances and her lasting contributions to the world of cinema. Smith leaves behind a remarkable legacy, with her characters continuing to inspire and entertain generations.

She will forever be remembered as a titan of the acting world, and her work will live on in the hearts of audiences worldwide.