Dame Maggie Smith as Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter (Warner Bros.)
London is dressed in mourning after the death of Dame Maggie Smith, one of the most representative figures of British theater and cinema, who died on September 27 at the age of 89. The legendary actress died peacefully in a London hospital, surrounded by her family, according to those close to her.
Smith, known worldwide for her role in series such as Downton Abbey and the film saga of Harry Potterleaves behind an incomparable artistic career. With a career that spanned from theater acting to film and television, his legacy will endure as one of the most notable in the entertainment industry.
In a statement, her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin expressed their deep sadness: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully on the morning of September 27 in the hospital, accompanied by her loved ones. He was a reserved person and greatly valued his private life. “Now we are left with the pain of losing an incomparable mother and grandmother.”
A MONUMENTAL CAREER
Born Margaret Natalie Smith in Essex on December 28, 1934, Dame Maggie began her acting career in 1952. In 1963, her performance as Desdemona alongside Laurence Olivier in Othello for the National Theater established her as one of the great figures of the British theater scene. This performance led to her being nominated for an Oscar when the work was adapted to film in 1965.
International success did not take long to arrive. In 1969, she won her first Oscar for Best Actress for her role in Miss Brodie’s best yearsa film that marked a before and after in his film career. In 1979, she would win a second award, this time as Best Supporting Actress, for her performance in California Suite.
Throughout her life, Smith accumulated eight BAFTA awards and was honored with the prestigious Tony Award for her work on Broadway with Lettice and Lovage. Among his most iconic performances are roles in classics such as A room with a view (1985), Gosford Park (2001), and more recently, her memorable characterization of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the saga of Harry Potter.
A DEDICATED TALENT
Actors and colleagues who shared the scene with Smith remember her as an irreplaceable performer. She was known for her relentless approach towards acting. Even in her moments of rest, she could be seen reviewing her lines, preparing for each scene with the dedication that characterized her throughout her entire career. Despite the fame he achieved, he always maintained a humble attitude towards his success, once stating: “I just went to school, I started acting because I wanted to, and I still do.”
Dame Maggie Smith’s departure leaves a huge void in the world of film and theatre, but her legacy will live on as a symbol of artistic excellence and dedication. (RI/AG/IP/)
