Fri Sep 27 19:03:56 UTC 2024: ## Dame Maggie Smith, Beloved Actress, Passes Away at 89

Renowned British actress Dame Maggie Smith, known for her iconic roles in “Downton Abbey,” the “Harry Potter” films, and numerous stage productions, has died at the age of 89. Her publicist confirmed the news, stating that she passed away peacefully in a hospital early Friday morning, September 27th.

Smith, a private individual, was surrounded by friends and family at the time of her passing. She leaves behind two sons, actors Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, and five grandchildren.

The actress achieved legendary status in the world of acting, winning the prestigious Triple Crown of Acting, recognizing excellence in film, television, and theater.

She received six Oscar nominations, winning Best Actress for her role in the 1969 film “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and Best Supporting Actress for “California Suite” in 1978.

On stage, she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her performance in “Lettice and Lovage” in 1990. Her television career saw her claim three Supporting Actress Primetime Emmy Awards for her work in “Downton Abbey” and a Lead Actress Emmy for the miniseries “My House in Umbria.”

Smith was honored for her contributions to the arts, receiving a Damehood from Queen Elizabeth II in 1990 and becoming a Member of the Order of the Companions of Honour in 2014.

Despite her immense success, Smith admitted in a 2019 interview that she didn’t initially harbor aspirations to become an actress. “Honest to God, I have no idea where the urge came from,” she said.

The British acting industry mourns the loss of one of its most celebrated figures. Dame Maggie Smith’s talent and presence will be deeply missed by fans worldwide.

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