Dame Maggie Smith was undoubtedly one of the most iconic actresses of her generation. Whether you admired her for her role in Harry Potter or Downton Abbey, her absence will be deeply felt.
Read on to learn about her last public appearance just a few months ago!
Dame Maggie Smith, renowned for her portrayals of Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series and Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey, has passed away at the age of 89, as confirmed by her family.
In a joint statement, her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin said, “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dame Maggie Smith.” They continued, “She passed away peacefully in the hospital early on Friday, September 27th. A private person, she was surrounded by friends and family at the end. She leaves behind two sons and five loving grandchildren who are heartbroken by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
The family expressed gratitude to the hospital, stating, “We would like to thank the incredible staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and kindness during her final days.”
The statement concluded with the family requesting privacy: “We appreciate all the kind messages and support and ask for privacy at this time.”
The news of her death has come as a shock to many. Dame Maggie was last seen publicly at the Wimbledon men’s singles final last year. She was dressed elegantly for the occasion, wearing a navy blue shirt dress with a chic dotted pattern, paired with black leather heels and a matching navy overcoat. She completed her look with a navy leather handbag slung over one shoulder and soft waves in her bob haircut, topped off with pink lipstick.
Since public appearances by the actress were rare, fans were surprised and delighted to see her at the event. Photos of her outing sparked admiration online, with comments such as “So elegant!” and “You look so beautiful,” while another simply added, “Amazing.”
Her fans were clearly thrilled to see her looking radiant and well.