Former ‘Downton Abbey’ and ‘Harry Potter’ actor Maggie Smith has passed away at the age of 89.
Maggie Smith, a British actress who was a recipient of two Oscars and a number of awards for her work in Shakespearean productions and subsequently participated in the Harry Potter film series, passed away on Friday at the age of 89, according to a report from the BBC.
Smith’s lengthy career began on the stage in the 1950s, and he is one of the few performers to have won the triple of an Oscar on two occasions, an Emmy on four occasions, and a Tony Award.
However, for many younger fans in the 21st century, she was best known for her roles as Professor McGonagall in all seven “Harry Potter” movies and the Dowager Countess in the hit television series and movie spin-offs of “Downton Abbey.” This was a role that seemed to be a perfect fit for an actress who was known for her malicious cracks and purse-lipped asides.
Her first nomination for an Academy Award came in 1965 for her performance as Desdemona alongside Laurence Olivier in the play “Othello.” She went on to win the award for her part as an Edinburgh schoolmistress in the film “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” in 1969.
She was awarded her second Academy Award for her supporting part in the comedy picture “California Suite,” which was released in 1978. As a result of her performance, her co-star Michael Caine gave the following quote: “Maggie didn’t just steal the film, she committed grand larceny.”
Other parts that received critical praise include Lady Bracknell in Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” on the West End stage, a 92-year-old woman who is desperately battling senility in Edward Albee’s play “Three Tall Women,” and her part in the dark comedy film “Gosford Park” from 2001.
In 1990, Queen Elizabeth bestowed upon Smith the honor of becoming a Dame and knighting him.