Downton Abbey actress Dame Maggie Smith (89) passed away

Dame Maggie Smith, the British actress who starred in the Harry Potter films and the hugely popular Downton Abbey series, died today. She was 89. Beyond Potter and Downton, Smith has appeared in numerous other films, television series, West End and Broadway productions in a career that has earned her two Oscars, four Emmys and a Tony Award.

Smith's death was confirmed by her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin. In a statement to British media, they said: “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 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.”



Smith (pictured) was one of the top British film and stage stars of her generation and will be remembered for her performances in iconic films and television series including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.

In Downton Abbey, she was the waspish Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, who often delivered some of the best lines in Julian Fellowes’ lavish period drama about English aristocrats. Hugh Bonneville, Smith’s Downton co-star, told the BBC that she was a “true legend” of the acting community. “Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit and formidable talent,” he said.

She has appeared as the formidable Professor McGonagall in the Potter film series, at the head of the Gryffindor house and as deputy headmistress to Albus Dumbledore.

Smith won two Oscars during a career that spanned many decades. The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie earned her her first Academy Award in 1970. Her second came nine years later with California Suite. Smith also won four Emmys, including three for Downton Abbey, and eight BAFTA awards.

Born in 1934, Smith's credits include 1965's Othello with Laurence Olivier, Sister Act, Gosford Park and The Lady in the Van.

The actress was honored by Queen Elizabeth II in 1990 and was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

“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,” the family statement adds. “We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”