‘Harry Potter’ star Dame Maggie Smith passes away

Veteran British actress Maggie Smith passed away in the hospital today due to an age-related illness. She was 89 years old.

In a heartfelt statement, her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, expressed their profound sadness: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith."

A true legend of British stage and screen, Dame Maggie won two Academy Awards during her illustrious career—one for 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie' in 1970 and another for 'California Suite' in 1979. She received four additional Oscar nominations and was honored with seven BAFTA awards.

Dame Maggie is best remembered for her sharp-tongued role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the *Harry Potter* series, captivating audiences with her commanding presence. In *Downton Abbey*, she portrayed Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, known for her clever one-liners and formidable presence.

Her significant contributions to film and theater have made a lasting impact on the arts, ensuring that her legacy will endure.