London: British actress Dame Maggie Smith, renowned for her remarkable contributions to theatre, film, and television, has passed away at the age of 89, the BBC reported on Friday. A celebrated Shakespearian actress and a two-time Oscar winner, Smith’s illustrious career spanned more than six decades.
Maggie Smith was one of the few actors to have achieved the distinguished “triple crown” of acting, having won two Oscars, four Emmys, and a Tony award over her career. Her journey began on stage in the 1950s, where she quickly became known for her commanding presence and exceptional talent.
While she was widely acclaimed for her early work, Smith became a household name to younger generations as Professor McGonagall in all seven “Harry Potter” films. She also captivated audiences with her role as the sharp-tongued Dowager Countess of Grantham in the hit TV series “Downton Abbey,” a performance that seemed tailor-made for her distinct style of delivering witty, cutting remarks.
Smith received her first Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Desdemona opposite Laurence Olivier in “Othello” (1965). Her breakthrough Oscar win came in 1969 for her role as an unconventional Edinburgh schoolmistress in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.” She later won her second Oscar for her supporting role in the 1978 comedy “California Suite,” a performance so memorable that co-star Michael Caine famously remarked, “Maggie didn’t just steal the film, she committed grand larceny.”
Beyond film, Maggie Smith made her mark in the theatre world with critically acclaimed performances, including her portrayal of Lady Bracknell in Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” on the West End and her portrayal of a 92-year-old battling senility in Edward Albee’s play “Three Tall Women.” She also starred in the 2001 black comedy film “Gosford Park,” earning further accolades.
Smith was honored in 1990 when Queen Elizabeth II knighted her, bestowing the title of Dame for her outstanding contributions to the arts.
Dame Maggie Smith’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy as one of the greatest and most versatile actresses of her time will endure, inspiring generations to come.