Dame Maggie Smith, widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her time, has passed away at the age of 89, according to her family. Known for iconic roles such as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series and Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in Downton Abbey, her death marks a significant loss to the world of entertainment.

Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, released a joint statement confirming her passing. “It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith,” they shared. The statement continued, “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.” Dame Maggie leaves behind two sons and five grandchildren, all heartbroken by her loss.