British actor Dame Maggie Smith has passed away at the age of 89, as confirmed by her family. With a career that spanned both stage and screen, Smith was a highly decorated actor, winning Tony, Emmy, and Oscar awards over the years. She was best known for her roles in the popular TV series "Downton Abbey" and the "Harry Potter" films.
Smith began her career on the stage at the Oxford Playhouse at the age of 17 and later made her mark on Broadway, earning three Tony nominations and winning one for her performance in "Lettice and Lovage" in 1990. On screen, she received her first BAFTA nomination in 1958 and went on to win two Oscars for her roles in "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" and "California Suite."
Her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the "Harry Potter" films endeared her to audiences of all ages, and she later garnered critical acclaim for her role as Violet Crawley in "Downton Abbey," earning three Emmy awards for her performance.
Throughout her career, Smith continued to take on challenging roles, including playing Brunhilde Pomsel in the one-woman play "A German Life" in 2019. Despite facing health challenges, including a battle with Graves' disease and breast cancer, Smith remained dedicated to her craft and continued to work in film, television, and theater.
Smith leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren. Her family described her as an "extraordinary mother and grandmother" who will be deeply missed.
Dame Maggie Smith's talent and contributions to the world of acting will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.