Harry Potter actress Dame Maggie Smith dies at 89

Dame Maggie Smith, the beloved British actress known for her iconic roles in Downton Abbey and the Harry Potter series, has died at the age of 89. A statement from her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, confirmed her passing early on the morning of Friday, September 27th, 2024. “It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith,” the statement read. “She passed away peacefully in hospital... with friends and family at the end.”

Smith’s family expressed their gratitude to the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, praising their "care and unstinting kindness" during her final days. The actress is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren. Her family requested privacy at this difficult time.

Dame Maggie Smith's illustrious career spanned over seven decades, making her a prominent figure in British theatre, film, and television. She earned international fame with her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films and as the sharp-tongued Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey.