Trigger warning: This article mentions death
Maggie Smith, best known for playing Professor McGonagall in all seven Harry Potter films, died on September 27 at the age of 89, a news that left many around the world mourning the passing of a much-loved and legendary icon . Smith is a critically acclaimed Shakespearean actress and two-time Academy Award winner.
In 2014, to recognize her contribution to drama over the past few decades, the Downton Abbey actress was made a Member of the Order of the Companions of Honor during a special ceremony at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England. The elite group of honorees comprised 65 members, including Professor Stephen Hawking, Judi Dench and Ian McKellen.
The late Queen Elizabeth was the one who awarded the Oscar-winning actress the gold badge and they reportedly had a private conversation at the event. But Smith declined to speak after the ceremony. The Order of the Companions of Honor or Order of Merit, was first instituted in 1917 by George V, who also established the Order of the British Empire at the same time.
News of Smith’s tragic passing was announced by his sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens in a statement, which read, “He passed away peacefully in hospital this morning, Friday 27th September.” He described his late mother as an “extremely private person” who had her near and dear ones around at the time of her death.
“She leaves behind two sons and five beloved grandchildren, who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother,” the statement said. He thanked the “wonderful staff” at Chelsea and Westminster for their care and kindness during her final days.
Many celebrities, including Downton Abbey castmates, paid tribute to the late actress. Show creator Julian Fellowes said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter that Smith was “really a great actress” and that those who saw her performance were very “fortunate”.
She added, “Writing for him was a joy, nuanced, layered, intelligent, funny, and heartbreaking.” Co-star Hugh Bonneville also shared a statement with the outlet, describing the late actress as someone who had a keen eye, a sharp intellect and tremendous talent.
