Date: September 27, 2024, 4:00 PM GMT
Executive summary:
Dame Maggie Smith, a renowned British actress known for her roles in "Harry Potter" and "Downton Abbey," has passed away at the age of 89. Smith’s career spanned decades, earning her numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, five BAFTA Awards, four Emmy Awards, three Golden Globes, five Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Tony Award. She was celebrated for her versatility, comedic timing, and dramatic depth.
Tributes and Obituaries
Maggie Smith, Iconic Harry Potter and Downton Abbey Star and Two-Time Oscar Winner, Dies at 89
Smith’s passing was announced by her family and quickly spread through news outlets. Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, confirmed her peaceful death. The article highlights her most prominent roles, including Professor Minerva McGonagall in the "Harry Potter" franchise and Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in "Downton Abbey."
People (3 hours ago)
Maggie Smith, scene-stealing actor famed for Harry Potter and ‘Downton Abbey,’ dies at 89
This article delves into Smith’s early career, mentioning her stage debut in 1952 and her early success in theater. It also highlights her versatility, portraying both comedic and dramatic characters with equal skill.
AP News (52 minutes ago)
Sharp tongued, indomitable, and beloved actress Dame Maggie Smith, dies at 89
NPR’s obituary focuses on Smith’s ability to seamlessly transition between stage and screen. It praises her performance in "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie," which earned her an Academy Award, and her role in "California Suite," for which she received another Oscar.
NPR (2 hours ago)
Maggie Smith, ebullient scene-stealer of stage and screen, dies at 89
The Washington Post’s obituary emphasizes Smith’s captivating stage presence and her ability to command attention with her wit and sharp dialogue. The article mentions her numerous stage productions, including "Othello" and "The Importance of Being Earnest."
Washington Post (38 seconds ago)
‘Dame Maggie Smith: Harry Potter and Downton Abbey actress dies at 89’
The BBC article offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of Smith’s career, highlighting her significant contributions to British theater, film, and television. It mentions her roles in "Harry Potter," "Downton Abbey," and "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie."
BBC (49 minutes ago)
Remembering Maggie Smith
A look back on Maggie Smith’s life and career
This CNN video (3:53) provides a comprehensive look back at Smith’s career, highlighting her early stage work, her iconic roles in "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" and "California Suite," and her later success in "Harry Potter" and "Downton Abbey."
CNN (59 minutes ago)
Maggie Smith Dead at 89
This YouTube video (4:32) from Entertainment Tonight offers a heartfelt tribute to Smith, focusing on her iconic performances in films like "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" and "The Secret Garden." It features clips from her most memorable roles and provides insight into her legacy as a beloved actress.
YouTube (2 hours ago)
Maggie Smith of ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Downton Abbey’ dies at 89
This NBC News video (2:08) offers a concise overview of Smith’s life and career, focusing on her roles in "Harry Potter" and "Downton Abbey." It highlights her impact on both the film and television industry, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
NBC News (2 hours ago)
‘Dame Maggie Smith has died at the age of 89. #HarryPotter …’
This short YouTube video (0:41) from BBC News announces Smith’s passing, featuring a brief clip of her iconic character, Professor McGonagall, from the "Harry Potter" films.
YouTube (2 hours ago)
‘BREAKING: Dame Maggie Smith, known for her roles in Harry …’
This YouTube video (1:14) from Sky News confirms Smith’s death, providing a brief overview of her career and highlighting her roles in "Harry Potter" and "Downton Abbey."
YouTube (3 hours ago)
Legacy and Impact
10 Great Maggie Smith Performances to Stream
The New York Times suggests 10 of Smith’s most notable performances available for streaming, offering a glimpse into her versatility and range. The list includes films like "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie," "California Suite," and "Gosford Park."
The New York Times (43 minutes ago)
A list of Maggie Smith’s film appearances
This AP News article provides a comprehensive list of Smith’s film appearances, spanning from her early roles to her later successes. It serves as a valuable resource for those interested in exploring her filmography.
AP News (1 hour ago)
Maggie Smith mourned by ‘Downton Abbey’ colleagues, more collaborators
This AP News article compiles tributes from Smith’s colleagues and fellow actors, highlighting her impact on the industry and the admiration she received from those who worked with her.
AP News (1 hour ago)
Maggie Smith – a life in pictures
This Guardian gallery offers a visual journey through Smith’s life and career, featuring photographs from her stage performances, film sets, and personal life. The images provide a glimpse into her remarkable journey as an actress.
The Guardian (2 hours ago)
Maggie Smith, Oscar-winning star of stage and screen, dies aged 89
This Guardian article offers a detailed overview of Smith’s career, highlighting her remarkable achievements and her impact on the world of theater and film. It praises her talent, versatility, and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances.
The Guardian (2 hours ago)
‘Downton Abbey’ Cast, Creators Pay Tribute to Maggie Smith: “One of the Greatest Actors of Our Time”
This Hollywood Reporter article features heartfelt tributes from Smith’s "Downton Abbey" castmates and creators, expressing their admiration for her talent, her dedication to the craft, and her lasting impact on the series.
The Hollywood Reporter (19 minutes ago)
Social Media Reactions
‘Dame Maggie Smith has died aged 89 : r/news’
This Reddit thread features a collection of comments from users sharing their memories of Smith and expressing their condolences.
Reddit (2 hours ago)
Maggie Smith, known for her roles in Harry Potter and …
This Reddit thread focuses on Smith’s role as Professor McGonagall in the "Harry Potter" films, with users sharing their favorite moments from the series and expressing their appreciation for her performance.
Reddit (2 hours ago)
‘RIP Maggie Smith, you”ll be remembered : r/BeAmazed’
This Reddit thread serves as a platform for users to express their admiration for Smith and to share their favorite memories of her performances.
Reddit (2 hours ago)
‘Actress Dame Maggie Smith dies at 89 : r/harrypotter’
This Reddit thread specifically dedicated to "Harry Potter" fans offers a space for users to share their memories of Smith’s portrayal of Professor McGonagall, expressing their love for the character and their appreciation for her contribution to the franchise.
Reddit (2 hours ago)
‘Dame Maggie Smith Dies at 89 : r/Broadway’
This Reddit thread dedicated to Broadway enthusiasts features comments from users who admired Smith’s stage performances, recognizing her contributions to the theater world.
Reddit (2 hours ago)