Famous British actress, Dame Maggie Smith, has sadly passed away on September 27, 2024, at the age of 89. Her family, including her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, confirmed that she passed away peacefully in a London hospital. The cause of death is still uncertain or undisclosed. 
Maggie Smith’s illustrious career spanned over seven decades, earning her two Academy Awards and recognition across stage and screen. Fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of this extraordinary talent and industry legend.
About Maggie Smith
Maggie Smith is a renowned British actress known for her distinguished career in film, television, and theater. Some of her most notable achievements include:
1. “Downton Abbey” (2010-2015)– She played the iconic role of Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, known for her sharp wit and memorable one-liners. 
2. “Harry Potter” series (2001-2011) – Smith portrayed Professor Minerva McGonagall, a stern but fair professor at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
3. Theater career– Smith has also had a prolific career on stage, earning acclaim for her performances in both classical and contemporary plays. She is a two-time Academy Award winner for her roles in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969) and California Suite (1978).
Her career spans over seven decades, and she is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation.
Maggie Smith was born on December 28, 1934, in Ilford, Essex, England. She became an actress after studying at the Oxford Playhouse School. Her stage debut came in 1952 when she appeared in a production of Twelfth Night in Oxford. Her talent quickly gained recognition, leading to roles in London’s West End and eventually a flourishing career in film, television, and theater.
Maggie Smith husbands/marriages
Not many people would know about Smith’s family life given that she’s been around for so long. Dame Smith was married twice, but has been without a husband since the turn of the century! 
Marriage with Robert Stephens
Maggie Smith got married to a prominent British actor, Robert Stephens in 1967. The pair had two sons together:
- Chris Larkin (born 1967), an actor known for his roles in films like Master and Commander and Valkyrie.
- Toby Stephens (born 1969), also an actor, famous for roles in films and TV series such as Die Another Day and Black Sails.
Smith’s marriage to Stephens didn’t last long however as they got divorced in 1975.
Maggie Smith second husband
Shortly after her divorce, Maggie Smith got married to her second husband, Beverley Cross, a playwright and screenwriter. They remained married until his death in 1998.
