Dame Maggie Smith, born Margaret Natalie Smith on December 28, 1934, in Ilford, Essex, England, was a towering figure in the world of acting. Her career, which spanned over seven decades, showcased her incredible versatility and talent, making her one of the most beloved actresses of her time. Smith’s journey began at the Oxford Playhouse School, where she honed her craft before making her professional debut on Broadway in “New Faces of ’56.”
Smith’s career was marked by a series of iconic roles that left an indelible mark on both stage and screen. She won her first Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” (1969) and later secured another Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in “California Suite” (1978). Her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” series and Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, in “Downton Abbey” further cemented her status as a cultural icon.
Beyond her professional achievements, Maggie Smith’s personal life was equally rich. She was married twice, first to actor Robert Stephens, with whom she had two sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, both actors. Her second marriage was to playwright Alan Beverley Cross.
Throughout her illustrious career, Smith garnered numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, five BAFTA Awards, four Emmy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award. In 1990, she was made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II, a testament to her significant contributions to the arts.
Maggie Smith’s legacy as a versatile and talented actress continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, ensuring her place in the annals of theatre and film history.
Maggie Smith Age:
Margaret Natalie Smith, known professionally as Maggie Smith, was born on December 28, 1934, in Ilford, Essex, England. She passed away on September 27, 2024, at the age of 89.
Maggie Smith Husband:
Maggie Smith, the acclaimed British actress, has been married twice. Her first marriage was to actor Robert Stephens in 1967, and they had two sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, before divorcing in 1975. She later married playwright Beverley Cross in 1975, and they remained together until his passing in 1998.
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Maggie Smith Children:
Maggie Smith has two sons from her first marriage to actor Robert Stephens:
- Chris Larkin (born Christopher Stephens) – He is an actor known for his roles in films like “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World” and “Valkyrie.”
- Toby Stephens – Also an actor, Toby is well-known for his performances in “Die Another Day,” the TV series “Black Sails,” and the Netflix series “Lost in Space.”
Maggie Smith Career:
Smith’s career, which spanned over seven decades, saw her become one of Britain’s most beloved and prolific actresses. She made her Broadway debut in “New Faces of ’56” and later worked with prestigious institutions like the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Some of her most iconic roles include:
- Jean Brodie in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969), for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress.
- Diana Barrie in California Suite (1978), earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
- Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series (2001–2011).
- Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey (2010–2015.)
Maggie Smith Net Worth:
Dame Maggie Smith, celebrated for her iconic roles in “Harry Potter” and “Downton Abbey,” had an estimated net worth of around $20 million. Her career, which spanned over seven decades, earned her numerous prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards, five BAFTAs, four Emmys, three Golden Globes, and a Tony.
