Maggie Smith dies aged 89 in hospital as her family speak out

The legendary actress is best known for playing Professor Minerva McGonagall in the eight Harry Potter movies and Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in Downton Abbey

Dame Maggie Smith has died, aged 89.

Her heartbroken sons confirmed the news in a statement, revealing their devastation at the loss.

The actress, best known for her roles in the Harry Potter franchise, Downtown Abbey and Sister Act, passed away today in hospital.

She is survived by her two sons and five loving grandchildren and they asked for privacy during their difficult time.

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In a statement issued via their publicist, her family said: “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.

They added: "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.”

Maggie is best known for playing Professor Minerva McGonagall in the eight Harry Potter movies. She also portrayed Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in the Downton Abbey ITV series and spin-off movies.

She won a best actress Oscar for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1969 and best supporting actress for California Suite in 1978.

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