Dame Maggie Smith, the esteemed actress whose career spanned seven decades across stage and screen, has passed away at the age of 89. She died peacefully on Friday morning, surrounded by her family and friends, as confirmed by her publicist.
Smith’s illustrious career began early, with her early performances in roles like Desdemona showcasing her delicate frame, a stark contrast to the formidable characters she would later portray. Despite her petite stature of just under five-foot-five, her performances exuded a commanding presence, whether she was delivering sharp dialogue in George Bernard Shaw’s plays, casting spells as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series, or portraying the formidable Lady Violet in Downton Abbey.
She first captivated audiences as a professional actress in her teens and quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing her precise diction in theatrical works that required brilliant wit and timing. Her role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1970, solidified her status as a leading actress. Smith portrayed a teacher whose influence was both impactful and controversial, stating, “Give me a girl at an impressionable age, and she is mine for life.”
In the following years, she starred in numerous acclaimed films and television shows, including Travels With My Aunt and Death on the Nile, while also shining onstage in various productions. She earned a second Oscar for her role in Neil Simon’s California Suite, where she showcased her comedic talent through multiple characters.
Smith’s career experienced a renaissance in her later years, with memorable performances in A Room with a View and Sister Act, as well as a significant role in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Her portrayal in Shakespeare’s Richard III was particularly striking, displaying her remarkable range as an actress.
Renowned playwright Peter Shaffer specifically created the role of Lettice in Lettice and Lovage for Smith, celebrating her unique blend of charm and wit.
In her later career, she gained a new following through the Harry Potter films, appearing in all except one, which endeared her to a younger generation. Meanwhile, her role in Downton Abbey won her new legions of fans as she brought humor and depth to the character of Lady Violet Crawley.
Throughout her remarkable life, Maggie Smith remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, leaving a legacy that will be cherished by audiences for generations to come.