Beloved Actress, Maggie Smith, Dies At 89 • Hollywood Unlocked

The world of entertainment lost another legendary star: Dame Maggie Smith — a two-time Oscar-winning actress whose illustrious career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on both film and television.

Best known for her iconic roles as the stern Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” franchise, Mother Superior in “Sister Act,” and the tart-tongued Dowager Countess on “Downton Abbey,” Smith’s death was confirmed on Friday by her publicist and children.

In a heartfelt statement shared with Fox News Digital, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens expressed their heartbreak: “It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September.” The statement further noted that she spent her final moments surrounded by friends and family. “An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end,” the statement read. “She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days.”

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Smith’s legacy extends far beyond her memorable on-screen performances. Her contributions to the arts earned her numerous accolades, including multiple BAFTA awards, and an enduring place in the hearts of fans around the world.

Her sons and five grandchildren, who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother, released a message of gratitude: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days.”

As the entertainment industry reflects on the profound impact of Dame Maggie Smith, her family has requested privacy during this difficult time, stating, “We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”

Dame Maggie Smith’s remarkable career and her ability to bring characters to life will forever be celebrated. Fans and fellow celebrities friends have already taken to social media to pay tribute.

Whoopi Goldberg said, “Maggie Smith was a great woman and a brilliant actress. I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to work with the “one-of-a-kind”. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family…RIP.” Another fan wrote on Twitter, “Nooo! Not my girl! Maggie Smith was brilliant in everything, no matter the role. RIP, Queen! You will be missed.” A third said, “RIP Queen Maggie Smith. And RIP to all the icons we’ve lost this year.”