Actress Dame Maggie Smith, known for her role as Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” films and Violet Crawley in “Downton Abbey,” has passed away. She was 89 years old.

Dame Maggie Smith Passes Away

According to Deadline, Smith’s passing was confirmed by her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin. In a statement to UK media, they said:

She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September.

An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. 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 case and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.

Smith earned two Oscars during her career as an actress: one for “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” in 1970, and another for “California Suite” in 1979, per the BBC.

In the “Harry Potter” films, Smith appeared as Professor McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor house and deputy headmistress to Albus Dumbledore.

Born in 1934, Smith’s acting work also includes roles in “Sister Act,” “Gosford Park,” and “The Lady in the Van.”

Our thoughts and condolences are with Smith’s family and loved ones.

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