Maggie Smith was an English-Scottish actress best known for her works in “Downton Abbey,” the “Harry Potter” films and “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.” With multiple Oscar, Emmy and Golden Globe awards, Smith’s legacy will not be left forgotten.
The Dame was born to Margaret Hutton and Nathaniel Smith on Dec. 28, 1934, in Essex, United Kingdom. At four years old, her family moved to Oxford, where she later studied at the all-girls Oxford High School. She made her professional stage debut in 1952, playing Viola in a production of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” She soon began acting in many films including her most famous series, which started with “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” As Professor Minerva McGonagall, Smith was one of the most beloved characters, and fans claim that she was the best casting decision in the series.
Nico DePaol (10) believes that without Smith, Harry Potter would not have been one of the most iconic movies in cinematic history.
“Her acting in the ‘Harry Potter’ movies was amazing and the performance was so well done that if it were not a movie, you would believe that she was feeling all the emotions that we see her character feeling. With her performance she was able to make you feel sad or happy depending on her mood,” DePaol said. “Maggie Smith’s acting was phenomenal in the movies she was a part of, and she will be missed as we move into the future without her.”
As well as being known for her incredible acting, Smith was acknowledged for her kindness and chivalry. In 1990, Smith became a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, as Queen Elizabeth II appointed her for her services to the performing arts. Being a Dame is the feminine equivalent of knighthood. The term began in the Middle English period, and it was a great honor to be considered one. Smith modestly accepted the title and lived up to every expectation.
Abigail Peuser (10) has always looked up to Smith and claims that she has inspired her throughout life.
“Maggie Smith was known for her wit and kindness which she effortlessly built into her characters. Smith has taught me and I’m sure several other people to be willing to do what you ask others to do. This is very powerful for me because it reminds us of treating others the way you want to be treated,” Peuser said. “Her words could help build a better environment and community in not just school but anywhere in the world, bringing a sense of unity and peace. One of her quotes that really stands out to me is ‘Speak your mind, even if your voice shakes.’ I’m sure myself and others could relate to this. Her words remind us to acknowledge our fear and doubts but choose to share our thoughts anyways because you never know that someone might be listening.”
In 1988, Smith was diagnosed with Grave’s Disease, an immune system disorder which attacks the thyroid gland. This disease can cause heart issues, pregnancy complications and more. In addition to this, Smith was diagnosed with breast cancer during the filming process of “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.” After two years of treatment, Smith beat cancer at the age of 74. Despite her health, Smith continued to do what she loved and was passionate about until her death. Her final film was “The Miracle Club” in 2023.
Regardless of the many health problems, Smith continued to thrive in her joy of acting and influenced so many people along the way. This includes her fellow co-stars, such as Hugh Bonneville, “Downton Abbey’s” Robert Crawley, and Emma Watson, who portrayed Hermione Granger in the “Harry Potter” films.
“Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit and formidable talent. She was a true legend of her generation and thankfully will live on in so many magnificent screen performances,” Bonneville said in standard.co.uk.
“When I was younger I had no idea of Maggie’s legend, the woman I was fortunate enough to share space with. It is only as I’ve become an adult that I’ve come to appreciate that I shared the screen with a true definition of greatness. She was real, honest, funny and self-honouring. Maggie, there were a lot of male professors and by God you held your own. Thank you for all of your kindness. I’ll miss you,” Watson said to elle.com.
