Dame Maggie Smith, the legendary British actress known for her roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, has passed away at the age of 89. Her family announced that she died peacefully in a hospital on Friday, September 27, surrounded by friends and loved ones.

In a statement, her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin expressed their sorrow, saying, “It is with great sadness we announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully with family and friends by her side. She leaves behind two sons and five grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”

Widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest actresses, Smith enjoyed a career spanning over six decades. She gained global recognition for her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films and as the Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey. Smith won two Academy Awards during her career—Best Actress for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1969 and Best Supporting Actress for California Suite in 1978. Her role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie also earned her a BAFTA, further cementing her status as a leading talent in British cinema.

The family extended their gratitude to the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their compassionate care and asked for privacy during this time. Dame Maggie Smith leaves behind an enduring legacy, beloved by fans, family, and friends for her exceptional contributions to the world of film and television.