Gyles Brandeth is among the celebs paying tribute to veteran star of stage and screen Dame Maggie Smith following her death today at the age of 89

She was 89 years old.

Her contributions to the arts were recognized by royalty—Smith became a Dame in 1990—but also by other notable figures. 

Acting legend Dame Maggie Smith, who died today aged 89, had spoken out about the complicated health battles she faced during the height of her career, and candidly revealed her thoughts about dying

Harry Potter movie series actress and Oscar winner Dame Maggie Smith passed away at the age of 89 on Friday.

The actress died peacefully in hospital

The ITV star had a career spanning decades and she appeared in multiple hit films and plays - with star performances in recent years in The Lady in the Van, Quartet and The Secret Garden

Her career lasted over seven decades and she was one of Britain's most prolific actresses

She won two Oscars and starred in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey.

Downton co-star Hugh Bonneville called her a "true legend of her generation" while Sir Keir Starmer described her as a "national treasure whose work will be cherished for generations to come".

Dame Maggie Smith, known for her roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, has died at the age of 89, her sons have said.

Iconic British actress Maggie Smith — known globally for her roles in 'Harry Potter' and 'Downton Abbey' — has died at the age of 89

MAILONLINE BLOG: Follow live coverage as the death of Dame Maggie Smith is announced by her sons. The 89-year-old was one of Britain's most prolific actresses on stage and screen.

Dame Maggie Smith was a fan favourite across her acting career which spanned over decades, while offscreen the Harry Potter and Downton Abbey star was 'intensely private' according to family

The legendary died in hospital, her family have announced

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

Harry Potter actress Dame Maggie Smith passes away at 89. Read now on BollywoodLife.com

Her sons have confirmed the sad news

Dame Maggie Smith, who was a national treasure, peacefully passed away aged 89.

Dame Maggie Smith was a fan favourite across her acting career which spanned over decades, while offscreen the Harry Potter and Downton Abbey star was 'intensely private', according to family

Maggie Smith, best known for her roles in 'Downton Abbey' and 'Harry Potter', died earlier today surrounded by friends and family.

The Harry Potter and Downton Abbey star's family said they are 'devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother'

Oscar-winning actress Maggie Smith has died in hospital aged 89.

Her death was announced by her family earlier today.