Few people have ever had the kind of career that Dame Maggie Smith can boast of. Her career spanned generations, making her one of the most enduring figures of Hollywood. From her Oscar-winning roles in the '70s to her success later in life in series such as Downton Abbey and Harry Potter, Smith was an icon of the acting world. Sadly, Maggie Smith passed away on September 27, 2024 at the age of 89.

Dame Maggie Smith might be best known to many of us as an elderly, doting figure of stage and screen, but her acting was, just like the woman herself, timeless. She earned her first BAFTA nomination all the way back in 1958 before winning a pair of Oscars for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1970 and California Suite in 1979. She was known for her sharp tongue and comedic timing, delivering seemingly harsh dialogue with a cheeky tone that was intensely disarming.

Her later role as Minerva McGonagall is perhaps her most famous in recent years – through it, Maggie Smith appeared in nearly all of the Harry Potter films from 2001 to 2011. However, we would argue that her most iconic role during the last 20 years of her life was that of the Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey, which utilized her wit and acidic delivery perfectly.

Her long career puts her in rare company. For nearly 70 years, Maggie Smith worked as an actor, delivering brilliant, memorable roles during that time. Few actors have the talent and longevity that she has had, which makes her passing feel shocking despite her age. She has always been there, popping up in roles with her distinctive voice and delivery. It feels almost wrong that we’ll never get another cutting glance or sharp comment from the actress again.

Dame Maggie Smith died on September 27, 2024 in London, UK at the age of 89. She was reportedly surrounded by her friends and family, including her two sons and five grandchildren, during her final hours. We at Popverse offer our deepest condolences to her family during this difficult time.