Hollywood actress Maggie Smith, renowned for her roles in the Harry Potter series and Downton Abbey, has died at the age of 89. According to Sky News, she passed away in the hospital surrounded by her loved ones. The announcement came from her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens.
In their statement, they expressed the family’s profound grief, 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.”
The family also extended their gratitude to the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and kindness during her final days. They requested privacy during this difficult time while acknowledging the support and kind messages they received from the public.
Maggie Smith is best remembered for her iconic portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films. Throughout her illustrious career, she garnered numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1969 and another for Best Supporting Actress for California Suite in 1978.
Hugh Bonneville, who starred alongside Smith in Downton Abbey, paid tribute to her legacy, stating, “Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit, and formidable talent. She was a true legend of her generation and thankfully will live on in so many magnificent screen performances. My condolences to her boys and wider family.”
Maggie Smith’s contributions to film and theater have left an indelible mark, and she will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.