Dame Maggie Smith, one of Britain’s most iconic and versatile actors, died on September 27, 2024, at the age of 89. Known for his commanding presence on both stage and screen, Smith left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, confirmed that he died in a London hospital early Friday.

Although modern audiences may most associate her with her beloved portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter franchise, Smith’s career spanned more than six decades and she made many notable performances in film, television, and theater.

Miss Jean Brodie’s time

Smith’s talent first gained widespread recognition with her role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969), where she gave a stellar performance, earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

His portrayal of the eccentric and sentimental school teacher is one of his most famous roles.

California Suite

A decade later, she won her second Oscar, this time in the Best Supporting Actress category, for playing the Oscar-losing actress in Neil Simon’s California Suite (1978). The duality of comedy and pathos displayed in the role demonstrated his extraordinary range.

Downton Abbey

One of her most iconic television roles came in Downton Abbey (2010–2015), where she played the sharp-tongued Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham. The role earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards, cementing his place as a beloved figure on the global television landscape.

harry potter franchise

While Maggie Smith and her characters were widely loved, she became quite famous among people of all generations after starring as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter franchise. Fans were charmed by her ability to bring JK Rowling’s beloved character to life, blending stern authority with a keen sense of compassion and intelligence.

Smith’s performance resonated deeply, making McGonagall not only a fierce protector of Hogwarts, but also a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and strength. His portrayal earned him a lasting place in the hearts of Harry Potter fans, which in turn cemented his legacy.

Other major roles

Throughout his career, Smith worked on a number of influential films. In Travels with My Aunt (1972), she depicted her character’s eccentric eccentricities, while in Death on the Nile (1978), she depicted the tension and mystery of Agatha Christie’s world. Other major films include A Room with a View (1986), in which she played the fussy but lovable Charlotte Bartlet, and Richard III (1995), playing Queen Elizabeth.

Smith’s talents extended beyond drama. She became a household name with her comedic roles in Hook (1991), Sister Act (1992) and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011). These performances showcased his sharp wit and impeccable comic timing.

His ability to seamlessly shift between drama and comedy made him a true icon of stage and screen. Smith’s work has left a lasting legacy, influencing countless artists and enthralling audiences around the world. As his family, friends and fans mourn his passing, his remarkable body of work will continue to celebrate his unique talent for years to come.