Legendary British Actor Maggie Smith Passes Away at 89

Oscar-winning British actor Maggie Smith, a legendary figure of stage and screen for over seven decades, passed away in a London hospital on Friday, her sons confirmed.

“With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Dame Maggie Smith. She peacefully left us in hospital early this morning, Friday, September 27th,” her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, shared in a statement.

Smith, a towering figure in British film and theatre, garnered a Tony, two Oscars, three Golden Globes, and five Baftas over her illustrious career. She gained international recognition later in life for her portrayal of the Dowager Countess of Grantham, Violet Crawley, in the acclaimed television series Downton Abbey.

Born on December 28, 1934, to an Oxford professor of pathology, Smith made her stage debut in 1952 with the Oxford University Dramatic Society.

She earned an Oscar for Best Actress in 1969 for her role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, and in the same year, won Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Desdemona in Othello.

“An intensely private person, she was surrounded by friends and family at the end,” her sons shared.

“She leaves behind two sons and five adoring grandchildren, all heartbroken by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother,” they added, expressing their gratitude for the “kind messages and support” they had received.

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