The curtain has fallen on the life of Dame Maggie Smith, one of the most celebrated actresses of our time, who passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024, at the age of 89. Throughout her remarkable career, which spanned over eight decades, Smith captivated audiences across stage and screen, earning prestigious accolades including two Oscars, seven BAFTAS, four Emmys, three Golden Globes, and a Tony Award.
Best known for her roles in classics like The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, A Room with a View, and the Harry Potter series, she etched her name in the hearts of many as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham on PBS's Downton Abbey. Her portrayal of the sharp, witty countess, replete with hilarious one-liners, solidified her status as a cultural icon.
Following her passing, tributes flooded in, with King Charles calling her "a national treasure" and many of her co-stars sharing heartfelt memories. Hugh Bonneville, who starred alongside her on Downton Abbey, described Smith as "the icon of a generation", acknowledging her formidable talent and the impact she had on the industry.
Even before her death, the cast and crew at Downton Abbey had recognized her unique place on set at Highclere Castle. The aristocratic owners of the estate maintained strict rules to protect the historic interiors during filming; eating and drinking were not permitted indoors, and many cast members had to make do with tents and trailers outside. Yet, Maggie was the exception. Reportedly, she was the only cast member allowed to enjoy meals inside the castle, often seen sipping tea during breaks, enveloped in her scripts.
A source cited by The Sun revealed, "She’d regularly be seen enjoying a cup of tea during her breaks, and the Carnarvon family absolutely adored her." This affection was mutual, as they expressed how much they missed her warmth and presence since her passing.
The Carnarvon family has taken to sharing her stories with visitors at Highclere, reminiscing about her time spent there. It is said she favored the Pink Room, which has never been featured on screen, making it her little sanctuary during the busy filming days. Aimlessly wandering the estate, Smith felt completely at home, creating fond memories intertwined with the architecture and history of the castle.
Smith's legacy is one of grace and undeniable talent, with her performances – with impeccable comedic timing and genuine emotion – forever etched in cinematic history. Each of her memorable lines as the Dowager Countess inspired laughter and reflection. Whether advising Lady Mary or sparring with cousin Isobel, her words often brought both whimsy and wisdom to audiences yearning for her intellect and humor.
Among her best quotes are, "What is a weekend?" and "Alas, I am beyond impropriety," showcasing her sharp wit and unparalleled ability to deliver lines with aplomb.
With her passing, Downton Abbey fans are facing the bittersweet anticipation of the upcoming third film installment set for release on September 12, 2025. While the show has maintained its popularity, there is no doubt the absence of Maggie Smith will be deeply felt. The impeccable layers she brought to her character cannot be replicated, and many fervently hope the film pays tribute to her exceptional legacy.
Hugh Bonneville provided insight on the direction of the new film, explaining, "It's got the usual tropes, if you like, of thrills and spills – which means spilling a tea cup, pretty much! I think it'll certainly be the best iteration of the film versions yet." The cast and crew are undoubtedly confronted with the challenge of moving forward without her, feeling her absence both on and off the screen.
Smith's death has sparked reflection on the pivotal roles she played, not just as characters on screen, but as influencers who shaped the theatrical and film landscapes across generations. Her extraordinary contributions to the arts have opened doors for countless others and created spaces for diverse stories and talent to thrive.
Her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens expressed their heartfelt sorrow, stating, "It is with great sadness we announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends." Acknowledging her role as not just an extraordinary actress, but also as a beloved mother and grandmother, they emphasized the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew her.
The remarkable life of Dame Maggie Smith came with both laughter and inspiration, and as the world moves forward, we will forever cherish the records of her brilliance, the laughter she shared, and the grace with which she commanded every role she undertook.