British actor Dame Maggie Smith, famous for her Harry Potter role, recently passed away at 89. We at Bookstr wanted to celebrate her life as we know she’s touched many of us here just as she did with our audience. Her characters and true life will resonate with us long after her tragic passing.
The Indelible Actress
Smith had an acting career that spanned seven decades. She started at the Oxford Playhouse and moved her way up to working at the Royal Shakespeare Company. Beyond her Harry Potter feature, she was cast in many reputable media pieces, including Sister Act, Spielberg’s Peter Pan adaptation Hook, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and Downton Abbey. In her lifetime, she received two Oscars for her amazing work. Queen Elizabeth also appointed her as a Dame in 1990 for her contribution to the performing arts.
The Passing of an Icon Following Others
In her personal life, Maggie married twice and had two sons, Chris and Toby. Our thoughts go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Smith’s death follows the passing of Alan Rickman in 2016 (Snape), Robbie Coltrane in 2022 (Hagrid), Sir Micheal Gambon in 2023 (Dumbledore), and many others. She effortlessly portrayed the strict and sometimes sassy headmistress with a heart of gold. This is certainly a sad moment for the Harry Potter community and beyond.
Since this news has come out, there’s been an outpouring of kind messages and remembrances around the web. I’m sure it will prompt many supporters to rewatch the series in memoriam. The world has lost a wonderful woman, and that is worthy of reflection.
Read up on the legacy of Robbie Coltrane here.
To shop for Harry Potter titles, go to bookshop.org.
