Harry Potter's Maggie Smith dies aged 89
Dame Maggie Smith, the legendary actress whose career spanned more than six decades, has passed away in hospital, her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens have announced.
Known for her unparalleled talent and iconic roles, including her beloved portrayal of Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter films and as Lady Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey as well as her award-winning performances on stage and screen, Maggie was a towering figure in the world of acting.
Dame Maggie Smith arrives to attend Evensong at the Chapel Royal Hampton Court Palace, to celebrate the Centenary of the founding of the Companions of Honour on June 13, 2017 in London© Getty
Dame Maggie Smith has died at the age of 89
Her sons shared the heartbreaking news, reflecting on the incredible legacy their mother leaves behind. In a statement issued via their publicist, they said: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith.
"She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September.
"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 as Violet Crawley and Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Talbot
'Downton Abbey' Film - 2019© Focus Features/Kobal/Shutterstock
Maggie Smith as Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. “We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time."
Maggie starred as resident powerhouse Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham. As well as returning in the subsequent movies, Downton Abbey (2019) and Downton Abbey: A New Era (2022), the actress has appeared in various films.
Among her many roles, Maggie has appeared in Sherlock Gnomes (2018), A Boy Called Christmas (2021), and The Miracle Club (2023).
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