A touching final interview between Maggie Smith and another Downton Abbey star
Maggie Smithone of Britain’s most popular and respected actresses, has died at the age of 89. His career, which spanned theater to film and television, left a deep mark on the entertainment industry. His death was announced by his children, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkinva a statement shared by his publicist Claire Dobbs. “It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of Mrs. Maggie Smith. He died peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, he was finally with friends and family,” they said in a statement.
Smith planned to retire after playing Violet Crawley in “Downton Abbey: A New Era,” and maintained a a hearty conversation with his busy colleague, Dominic West during filming in 2022. West told the British paper The Independent: “I sat beside her at that famous table for two or three days and could talk and listen to her witty jokes and sarcastic comments.” During one of these interviews, Smith revealed his intention to quit acting altogether: “At one point he said he was going to throw in the towel now, that was it. I won’t do anything else. And I said, ‘What? Act?’ and she said, ‘Yeah, no more acting,'” West said.
Actor from “Wire” Moved by her confession, he asked her, “A theater too?”, to which she confirmed, “No, this will be mine last job“. West felt like he was witnessing history, but when he expressed his sadness at her retirement to his partner the following week, he was greatly surprised by her response: “Nonsense! I will make another film. It starts next week.” this movie, “The Miracle Club” from 2023would be Smith’s last acting film appearance Lily Fox.
“Downton Abbey”created Julian Felloweshe had success in both television and film. The series follows the lives of the Crawley family, aristocrats who live in a magnificent mansion in Yorkshire. Since its inception, it has spread throughout the world six seasons and later moved to the big screen with two films. The first film, released incl 2019, focused on the royal visit to the country estate King George V and Queen Mary in 1927. In 2022 The second film titled Downton Abbey: A New Era. In this sequel, the Crawley family and their loyal staff embark on a grand adventure when Dowager Countess of Grantham, Violet Crawleyinherited a villa in French Riviera.
Both films are available at Max. This year, it was confirmed that there would be a third installment, causing much excitement among fans of the British period drama.
Maggie Smith’s career has been widely celebrated. Won two Oscars: one for Best Actress for “Miss Jean Brodie’s First Place” (1969) and another for Best Supporting Actress “California Suite” (1978). In addition, she was known for her iconic roles as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the filmharry potter” and as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess “Downton Abbey.” His legacy on the big screen also includes films such as “Hook”, “Sister Act”, “Sister Act 2” and “Tea with Mussolini”.
His contribution to the theater was also significant, he won an award Tony in 1990 for his role in “Lettice and Libby.”“. In the same year she was appointed Lady Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II for services to the theater arts. A title that was widely recognized and respected. Smith was married twice, first to an actor Robert Stephens and then with the dramaturg Beverley Cross until his death in 1998. He is survived by his two children, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkinand his five grandchildren.
The news of his death has touched many who remember his extraordinary talent and ability to capture the essence of every character he played. A statement shared by his children said: “He leaves behind two children and five beloved 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 Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for your unconditional care and kindness during his final days.”
Smith continues to be remembered by the art community and his admirers as an iconic figure whose work will continue to inspire generations to come. His long career and numerous awards are a testament to his dedication and talent in acting.