Remembering Actress Dame Maggie Smith, Who Has Died at Age 89

Actress Dame Maggie Smith has sadly passed away at age 89.

Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, announced her death in a statement:

"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. 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 care 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."

Dame Smith was known for her incredible roles in films and media such as Downton Abbey, Harry Potter, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and more. 

She was a patron of several charities like Glaucoma UK, and the Oxford Playhouse where her career had its beginning. Additionally, she was a vice president of the Royal Theatrical Fund which provides support for members of the entertainment industry that are unable to work.

In 2012, Maggie Smith donated a drawing of her own hand to the 2012 Celebrity Paw Auction, to raise funds for Cats Protection, and in 2013, she donated a gnome she personally decorated to raise money for the Royal Horticultural Society.

Alongside Kenneth Branagh, Judi Dench, Derek Jacobi, and Ian McKellen, Dame Maggie Smith took part in a conversation on Zoom entitled For One Knight Only, for the charity Acting for Others.

Consistently throughout her life and career, Dame Maggie Smith donated her time, talent, and funds to those in need. Whether in the industry she valued so deeply or to those affected by disasters, she had a huge heart, which left her beloved by so many. She will be sorely missed.

Charity Check-in 

At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.

The Fore. This charity is transforming lives and society by turbo-charging exceptional small charities and social enterprises. Support them here.

The Brother’s Trust. This charity is run by Tom Holland’s family, aiming to shine a light on charities where generous donations can be used to maximum effect. Find out more.

The Henry Smith Charity. This is a grant giving charity that aims to use its resources to help people and communities in the UK. Learn more here.

This article aligns with the UN SDG Partnerships for the Goals.