Maggie Smith, one of Britain’s most celebrated stage and screen actors, known for her diverse roles ranging from the spirited Scottish schoolteacher in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie to the sharp-witted dowager countess in Downton Abbey, passed away on Friday in London at the age of 89.
Her family confirmed the news in a statement issued by a publicist, though the cause of death was not disclosed. Smith’s legendary career spanned over six decades, earning her numerous accolades and the admiration of audiences worldwide.
Maggie Smith’s Cause of Death
The news of Maggie Smith’s passing was shared by her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, who said in a statement:
“She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday, 27 September. An intensely private person, she was surrounded by friends and family at the end. She leaves behind two sons and five loving grandchildren, all of whom are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unwavering kindness during her final days. We appreciate your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”
Tributes
Tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and admirers across the world following the news of Maggie Smith’s passing. Many in the British entertainment industry, as well as international stars, remembered her for her incredible talent and wit.
Fellow actors from her Downton Abbey cast and theatre figures from the West End shared fond memories of her sharp humor and an unrivaled dedication to her craft.
Sue Messy said: “So sad that the legendary Dame Maggie Smith has left us.
I first saw her in Clash of the Titans, adored her as Gunilla Garson Goldberg in The First Wives Club & the Sister Act films and watched her last in A Boy Called Christmas!
Rest well knowing you were always adored”
As tributes spread across social media, fans from around the globe expressed their admiration for Smith’s unforgettable roles, recognizing her as an artist whose work transcended borders and touched audiences far and wide.
Daniel Radcliffe honors late ‘Harry Potter’ co-star Maggie Smith:
“I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her… The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her.
Thank you Maggie.” pic.twitter.com/GSrktitjD2— NerdVeda (@TheNerdVeda) September 27, 2024
RiP Maggie Smith pic.twitter.com/F94DiQcGhQ
— Random dude saying random stuff (@ghostofthenews) September 27, 2024
