Professor McGonagal "Harry Potter": passed away, private life

Veteran actress Maggie Smith, known for her role as Professor McGonagal in the popular 'Harry Potter' film series, has breathed her last at the age of 89.

Actress Maggie Smith, famous for her role as the powerful Gryffindor professor in the movie "Harry Potter," passed away on September 27 in London at the age of 89.

Her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens added: "A very private person, she was surrounded by friends and family at the end. She leaves behind two sons and five lovely grandchildren who are deeply saddened by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother."

The family of the late artist thanked fans, Maggie's colleagues and the dedicated care of the doctors during her hospital stay. They also asked fans and the media to respect the family's privacy at this difficult time.

Born in 1934, Maggie Smith grew up in Oxford, England, and began her acting career at the city's Playhouse as a teenager. She appeared in many stage productions, including the 1957 musical comedy "Share My Lettuce" by Bamber Gascoigne, opposite Kenneth Williams. She also made her film debut, starring in Seth Holt's 1958 thriller "Nowhere to Go," for which she was nominated for a Bafta Award for Best Supporting Actress.

She began her performing career as a teenager at the Playhouse Theatre and quickly rose to prominence with her charming performances in comedies.

Maggie Smith's film career took off in the late 1950s and flourished in the 1960s. She made an impression on audiences through her roles in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969) and the television series Downton Abbey (2010-2015).

She is best known for her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter film series (2001–2011). Throughout her career, Maggie has received many prestigious awards, including 2 Academy Awards, 5 BAFTA Awards, 4 Emmy Awards and 2 Tony Awards.

In 2007, the actress was diagnosed with breast cancer and began treatment. To complete her role in the film "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince", Maggie Smith bravely overcame alternating chemotherapy sessions.

For her, the opportunity to participate in "Harry Potter" was extremely precious and despite having to endure constant pain, she was determined to continue filming despite her health being seriously affected.

Upon hearing the news of the passing of veteran actress Maggie Smith, many of her colleagues expressed their condolences and heartache. Veteran actor Michael Caine said: "It was an honor to make two films with the legendary Maggie Smith. A truly brilliant actress and a dear friend, who will be greatly missed."

Actress Whoopi Goldberg, who co-starred with Maggie Smith in episodes of "Sister Act," said: "Maggie Smith was an amazing woman and an outstanding actress. I still can't believe I was lucky enough to work with such a 'one of a kind' person. My sincere condolences to the family."

In addition to her acting career, Maggie Smith is also active in social activities. She often participates in charity activities and arts education for young people. She was appointed Dame of the United Kingdom in 1990 for her great contributions to the entertainment industry.

The Harry Potter fan page, which has 69 million followers, sent condolences and paid tribute to the late actress: "Dame Maggie Smith had a huge impact as Professor McGonagall in all eight Harry Potter films. We are deeply saddened to hear of her passing today, aged 89. Her quick wit and formidable presence as Head of Gryffindor House ensured Hogwarts was always safe."