Maggie Smith, 89, Oscar-Winning Actress of ‘Downton Abbey’ and ‘Harry Potter,’ Passes Away

British ⁣actress Maggie ‍Smith, known for her ⁤roles in “Downton Abbey” and the “Harry Potter” films, has‌ passed away at the age of 89. Smith’s sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, confirmed her death in a statement, revealing​ that she died at a ​London hospital on⁢ Friday morning. Born on December ⁣28, 1934, in Ilford, East⁢ London, Smith studied acting at the Oxford Playhouse​ School before landing roles in revues throughout the 1950s. She made her film‌ debut in 1956 and ⁣received her first ⁢BAFTA nomination two years later. In 1969, she won ⁢an Academy Award for Best Actress for her ​performance in ‍”The ⁣Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.” Smith went on to win ⁢another Oscar in 1979 for ‍her role in “California ⁣Suite.” Some of her other notable films include “Gosford⁣ Park,” “Becoming‌ Jane,”⁢ and “My Old Lady.” She also‍ portrayed Professor Minerva McGonagall ‍in the “Harry Potter” franchise ⁣and Violet Crawley on the British⁢ drama series “Downton​ Abbey.” ⁤Following news of Smith’s passing, many actors paid tribute to her immense ​talent and influence. Rob Lowe described working ​with Smith as⁤ an unforgettable experience and praised⁣ her wit and sharpness. Piers Morgan called her a magnificent ⁢actress ⁢and lady who will be deeply missed by ⁤Britain. Hugh Bonneville referred to Smith ​as a true ⁤legend of her generation with formidable talent. Michelle Dockery expressed how ‍lucky she felt ​to have known such a maverick like Maggie ‍Smith.