Dame Maggie Smith, the legendary actress known for her iconic roles in the “Harry Potter” series and “Downton Abbey,” has died at the age of 89, as confirmed by her family on Friday.
Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, shared the news in a statement, revealing that she “passed away peacefully in the early hours of Friday, September 27” while surrounded by loved ones.
Describing her as someone who valued her privacy, they expressed that she was accompanied by family and friends during her final moments. She leaves behind two sons and five cherished grandchildren, who are mourning the loss of their remarkable mother and grandmother.
The family extended their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their compassionate support during her last days.
Among her many acclaimed performances, Smith is particularly remembered for her role as Charlotte Bartlett in the 1985 Merchant Ivory film “A Room With a View,” where she accompanied Helena Bonham Carter’s character, Lucy Honeychurch, on a journey to Italy. This performance garnered her nominations for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe.
Smith’s illustrious career began on the stage, leading to her first BAFTA nomination for the 1958 drama “Nowhere to Go.” By 1963, she was cast as Desdemona in Laurence Olivier’s production of “Othello” at the National Theatre, marking the beginning of her prominent presence in theater.
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