Dame Maggie Smith, one of Britain’s most esteemed actresses, has sadly passed away shortly after her last public appearance. Throughout her remarkable career, she accomplished so much and underwent an incredible transformation. Take a look at photos capturing her evolution over the years.
Maggie Smith’s journey in acting started at the Oxford Playhouse during the 1950s. She first appeared on the big screen in 1956, in “Child in the House.” Since then, the Oscar winner, best known for her role in the “Harry Potter” films has graced over sixty films and television series with her exceptional talent.
Maggie Smith pictured at her home in Belsize Park on September 1, 1957, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
Her recent passing, shortly after a public sighting, has sparked a walk down memory lane, reflecting on her life and remarkable transformation. Here’s a visual journey through Maggie’s life over the years.
1959
In this 1959 photograph, the actress had a short, neat hairstyle that accentuated her facial features. She wore a sleeveless velvet gown with a modest neckline and held a glass in one hand.
Maggie Smith attends the Evening Standards Drama Awards on January 26, 1960, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
1960
In April 1960, Maggie was photographed in a smart, checkered dress layered over a crisp, white blouse. Her hair was styled in soft waves, and she stood with arms crossed, exuding a poised confidence.
Maggie Smith pictured on the set of the play “What Every Woman Knows” in 1960 | Source: Getty Images
By September of that year, her style took a bold turn. The film and stage star appeared wrapped in a towel, holding a playing card, with her hair tousled and her expression serious.
Maggie Smith during a photocall for a new play “Strip The Willow” at the Newcastle Theatre on September 11, 1960 | Source: Getty Images
1963
Continuing into the early 1960s, Maggie’s elegance took on a playful charm. In this 1963 image, she posed with a coy expression in a polka-dot outfit and had her short hair styled in soft curls.
Maggie Smith photographed on January 1, 1963 | Source: Getty Images
1965
As the mid-1960s approached, the British native’s career continued to evolve. She was captured in a pensive pose, wearing a headscarf and a layered outfit. This was around the time when she starred in “Othello.”
Maggie Smith pictured on the set of the play “The Master Builder” in 1965 | Source: Getty Images
1967
By 1967, Maggie’s elegance and charm were more radiant than ever. In this picture she posed with a soft smile, her hair styled in voluminous curls while holding a makeup brush. This was also the year she welcomed her eldest son, Chris Larkin, with her first husband, actor Robert Stephens.
Maggie Smith photographed at The Old Vic Theatre on October 24, 1967, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
1969
As 1969 began, the family woman was pictured with her stylish short blonde hair while wearing a patterned scarf. Around this time, Maggie was also preparing for the arrival of her youngest son, Toby Stephens, who was born in April 1969.
Maggie Smith on the set of “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” in 1969 | Source: Getty Images
In the second image, the mother of two was seen playing the flute in a scene from the movie “Hot Millions.” Her character’s vibrant plaid outfit and focused expression captured her versatility as an actress.
Peter Ustinov and Maggie Smith on the set of the movie “Hot Millions” in 1969 | Source: Getty Images
1970
Moving into the early 1970s, Maggie’s personal life experienced challenges. In this image, she appeared alongside Robert and their son, Chris. During this period, the family faced hardship as Robert attempted to commit suicide, marking a turbulent time in their lives.
Maggie Smith, Robert Stephens, and Chris Larkin pictured on March 3, 1970 | Source: Getty Images
1973
As the early 1970s progressed, the award-winning star’s elegance and charm remained evident. In the February 1973 photograph, she was captured in a relaxed backstage moment, wearing a soft robe.
Maggie Smith pictured getting ready in the backstage on February 23, 1973 | Source: Getty Images
By March of the same year, Maggie was spotted in a more casual setting, sporting large glasses with her hair pulled back. Her bright smile reflected the warmth and grace that continued to define her persona during this period.
Maggie Smith attends “Rehearsals for 45th Annual Academy Awards” on March 26, 1973, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
1975
As 1975 approached, the “Sister Act” star faced significant changes in her personal life. She divorced Robert after eight years of marriage due to infidelity and soon after, married her second husband, playwright and screenwriter Beverley Cross.
Maggie Smith attends the 29th Annual Tony Awards on April 20, 1975, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Maggie later admitted that she never stopped loving Robert, saying, “I don’t see how you can, really. I have two wonderful sons, and he is the reason for that.” By the end of Robert’s life, they had rekindled a friendship, and he passed away in 1995.
Maggie Smith pictured on January 1, 1975 | Source: Getty Images
Meanwhile, she and Beverley shared 23 years of marriage before his unfortunate death in 1998 at the age of 66. He had reportedly undergone treatment for a series of aneurysms.
Maggie Smith attends the 29th Annual Tony Awards on April 20, 1975, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
1979
As the late 1970s came around, Maggie continued to captivate audiences with her grace. She once sported a chic bob hairstyle during this period and wore a subtly patterned outfit.
Maggie Smith at the opening of “Night and Day” on November 27, 1979, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
1986
Heading into the mid-1980s, the veteran star embraced a more relaxed lifestyle. One time, she posed outdoors at her Sussex country home with a gentle smile.
Maggie Smith photographed at her Sussex country home on January 1, 1986, in Sussex, England. | Source: Getty Images
1999
Entering the final years of the 20th century, Maggie continued to shine on stage. In this 1999 photograph, she was captured performing as Miss Shepherd in Alan Bennett’s play, “The Lady in the Van,” at London’s Queens Theatre. Her layered costume and serious expression demonstrated her dedication to embodying complex characters.
Maggie Smith on the set of the play “The Lady in the Van,” in 1999 | Source: Getty Images
2001
As the new millennium unfolded, the Hollywood star continued to grace the screen with her talent. During this period, she starred alongside Helen Mirren in the acclaimed film, “Gosford Park.” Around the same time, Maggie took on the role of the formidable Professor McGonagall in the hugely successful “Harry Potter” franchise.
Maggie Smith during the New York premiere of “Gosford Park,” 2001| Source: Getty Images
2011
As the decade progressed, the two-time Academy Award winner continued to shine in the spotlight. She attended the world premiere of a “Harry Potter” film during this time. Her silver hair and elegant attire reflected her timeless grace and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
Maggie Smith at the world premiere of “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2,” 2011 | Source: Getty Images
2013
Two years later in 2013, Maggie’s first child Chris candidly talked about hiding his real identity from the age of 19. He changed his given name, Christopher Stephens, because Equity already had it on its books. Most importantly, the actor wanted to keep his work and family separate.
Maggie Smith at the 132nd Sandringham Flower Show on July 31, 2013 in Norfolk, England. | Source: Getty Images
2014
Transitioning into the mid-2010s, Maggie was seen fully immersed in her role as Miss Shepherd in Alan Bennett’s “The Lady in the Van,” on October 21, 2014.
Maggie Smith on the set of “The Lady In The Van” 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Just a couple of days later, the celebrity was spotted filming on set, donning a casual navy jacket while portraying the intriguing character in “The Lady in the Van.”
Maggie Smith on the set of “The Lady In The Van” 2014 | Source: Getty Images
By December 2014, she attended a public event wearing a vibrant, multi-colored outfit at the National Maritime Museum.
Maggie Smith attends A Night Of Heroes: The Sun Military Awards on December 10, 2014, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
2015
As 2015 unfolded, Maggie attended the Royal Film Performance in February, wearing a sleek, light-colored blazer over a simple black top and warmly smiled for the cameras.
Maggie Smith attends The Royal Film Performance and world premiere of “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” on February 17, 2015, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
By October of the same year, she was seen at the screening of “The Lady in the Van,” donning a vibrant, floral-patterned jacket, and had her hair styled in a soft wave.
Maggie Smith during the BFI London Film Festival on October 13, 2015, in London. | Source: Getty Images
2016
In early 2016, the “Downton Abbey” alum continued to showcase her vibrant presence at various events. On February 7, she attended the London Evening Standard British Film Awards, dressed in a casual yet elegant blue jacket.
Maggie Smith attends the London Evening Standard British Film Awards on February 7, 2016, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
A week later, on February 14, she graced the EE British Academy Film Awards in a deep burgundy outfit, reflecting her timeless sense of style. Her poised look captivated the crowd.
Maggie Smith attends the EE British Academy Film Awards on February 14, 2016, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
By November, Maggie took to the stage at the 62nd London Evening Standard Theatre Awards. With animated gestures and a joyful expression, she commanded the spotlight.
Maggie Smith speaks onstage at the 62nd London Evening Standard Theatre Awards on November 13, 2016, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
2017
In 2017, the beloved actress graced several events, showcasing her timeless elegance. In May, she attended an event with Dame Judi Dench, exuding warmth and grace.
Judi Dench and Maggie Smith attend the Acting For Others Presidential Awards on May 12, 2017, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
A month later in June, the renowned show business star was seen arriving at a chapel service wearing a black and white outfit. She had her silver short hair styled in bangs.
Maggie Smith attends Evensong at the Chapel Royal Hampton Court Palace on June 13, 2017, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
July found Maggie at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, alongside Sir Ian McKellen, where her composed presence stood out amidst the crowd.
Maggie Smith and Ian McKellen attend the Wimbledon Tennis Championships on July 12, 2017, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
Finally, in December, she appeared at a charity event with Sir Derek Jacobi, radiating charm in a striking red outfit, a testament to her enduring style and spirit.
Maggie Smith and Derek Jacobi attend “One Night Only At The Ivy” on December 10, 2017, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
2018
In 2018, Maggie remained active in her craft. The image from May captured her attending an event donning a beige and black getup as she warmly smiled for the camera.
Maggie Smith attends the Acting For Others Golden Bucket Awards on May 4, 2018, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
By November, the Hollywood star was seen sharing a moment with her long-time friend and fellow actor, Ian, at another public event.
Ian McKellen and Maggie Smith pose during Semi-Final Day of the 2018 Nitto ATP World Tour Tennis Finals on November 17, 2018, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
2019
As time moved forward, so did Maggie’s elegance and poise. In July 2019, she attended Wimbledon, radiating her signature charm while keeping a casual yet sophisticated look.
Maggie Smith attends the Wimbledon 2019 Tennis Championships on July 11, 2019, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
Fast forward to November of the same year, the public figure graced the 65th Evening Standard Theatre Awards with her refined style, once again leaving a lasting impression on the red carpet.
Maggie Smith attends the 65th Evening Standard Theatre Awards on November 24, 2019, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
2020
As the years went by, Maggie continued to captivate audiences with her remarkable talent. In early 2020, she was seen on the set of the family/fantasy film “A Boy Called Christmas” in Primrose Hill, London.
Maggie Smith on the set of “A Boy Called Christmas,” 2020 | Source: Getty Images
2021
A year later in 2021, the celebrity continued to grace public events with her presence. She was spotted attending the Wimbledon Championships.
Maggie Smith attends Wimbledon Championships Tennis Tournament Ladies Final Day on July 10, 2021, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
2022
In 2022, Maggie shared her decision to retire with actor Dominic West. He recalled the “incredibly emotional” moment during a conversation on the “Downton Abbey” set.
Maggie Smith attends the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 9, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
Dominic was thrilled to work with her but was shocked when she said this would be her last project. She revealed she was done with both film and theater.
Maggie Smith attends the One Night Only fundraiser on December 4, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
Present for her final scene, Dominic felt he was “witnessing history.” He later said it was moving to realize that such a great actress was stepping away.
Robert Lindsay and Maggie Smith attend the “One Night Only” event on December 4, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
2024
In what would become her last public appearance, she delighted diners during an outing in London. She wore a light blue top and a headband, which held back her iconic silver hair.
Just days later on September 27, 2024, the beloved Maggie Smith’s sons announced that she sadly passed away at 89, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans and the industry alike.