Fri Sep 27 17:39:09 UTC 2024: ## Dame Maggie Smith, Beloved British Actress, Passes Away at 89

**LONDON -** Dame Maggie Smith, renowned for her iconic roles in films and television series like “Harry Potter” and “Downton Abbey,” has died at the age of 89. The news was confirmed by her family to CBS News.

Smith, who was often considered one of the most prominent British actresses of her generation, passed away peacefully in a hospital early Friday morning. She was surrounded by friends and family, her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, said in a statement.

Born in Ilford, Essex on December 28, 1934, Smith’s passion for acting began at a young age. She started studying acting at the Oxford Playhouse at 16 and made her professional debut in 1952, playing Viola in Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” Her career spanned over six decades, leaving a lasting impact on the world of theatre and film.

Smith’s talent was recognized early on, catching the eye of Laurence Olivier who invited her to join his National Theatre company. In 1969, she won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of the charismatic schoolteacher in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.” She later received a supporting actress Oscar for “California Suite” in 1978.

Smith’s impressive resume includes numerous awards and nominations, including four more Academy Award nominations, four BAFTAs, five Screen Actors Guild Awards, three Golden Globes and a Tony Award.

A new generation of fans came to adore Smith for her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” film series, a role she described as “my pension.” She continued acting well into her 80s, appearing in films like “Downton Abbey: A New Era” and “The Miracle Club.”

Despite her immense success, Smith remained humble and dedicated to her craft. When asked if she would ever retire, she responded, “I think that the date for that has gone by. I fear that I won’t work in the theater again. I’m sad about that. But I won’t retire. I think I’ll keep going.”

Dame Maggie Smith will be remembered as a legendary actress whose talent and grace will continue to inspire generations to come.

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