“She leaves 2 sons and 5 loving grandchildren”: This Harry Potter Photo Will Hit Different Now That Professor McGonagall, Dame Maggie Smith, Dies at 89
We’ve lost one of the most delightful gems in the treasure chest of cinema. Regrettably, no amount of Hogwarts’ finest will bring back the Dame of dignity, Maggie Smith, who, at 89, has left us spellbound for eternity. Her passing marks a poignant moment in the annals of film (& theater), where her performances—especially as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series—resonated with wisdom and strength.
It’s no wonder that heartfelt tributes are pouring in, reflecting a life not just lived but extraordinarily honored. That being said, there’s one Harry Potter photo featuring Smith, Michael Gambon, and Alan Rickman together that resonates deeply. Now that all three have left us, this image hits differently.
A Fond Farewell to Dame Maggie Smith
Dame Maggie Smith has taken her final bow at the age of 89. She captured our hearts with her Oscar-winning role in the 1969 film The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, and then had us all reaching for our handkerchiefs as the formidable Violet Crawley, dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey.
Oh, and let’s not forget Professor McGonagall! If Hogwarts had a hall of fame, the late actress would be its undisputed reigning champion. Sadly, Smith’s family announced (via CNN) her passing early Friday, revealing that she leaves behind two sons as well as five grandchildren who are understandably feeling as if they’ve lost their guiding star.
In their heartfelt statement, they expressed:
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.
In a show of gratitude, her family thanked the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for taking such good care of her during her final days.
Smith was often hailed as the preeminent British actress of her generation, often sharing the limelight with the likes of Vanessa Redgrave and Judi Dench. From her role in Hook to her memorable performance in Sister Act, she had a unique talent for blending charm with just the right touch of mischief.
Although her passing came as a shock to many, fans can find solace in her vast body of work. She earned a treasure trove of accolades: two Academy Awards, four Emmy Awards, and three Golden Globe Awards, plus a handful of nominations for the Laurence Olivier Awards.
Remembering Dame Maggie Smith as Professor McGonagall
As the news of Dame Maggie Smith’s passing spreads, fans and colleagues alike are sharing heartfelt tributes that underscore the profound impact she had on all who knew her work. The late actress donned the robes of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films, and let’s just say, she was the Hermione Granger of Hogwarts staff—brilliant, fiercely loyal, and armed with a magical wit.
Now, in the wake of her passing, a particular image of Smith, Michael Gambon, and Alan Rickman together is making the rounds on social media, striking a chord with fans and hitting them right in the feels. Rickman, known for his iconic role as Severus Snape, passed away in 2016 (see BBC).
Gambon, who portrayed the beloved Albus Dumbledore, left us in 2023. And now, with the recent loss of Maggie Smith, fans are reflecting on the profound impact these incredible actors had on the Harry Potter universe.
So, let’s see what the fans are saying:
After all, in the words of Albus Dumbledore, “Do not pity the dead, Harry. Pity the living, and above all, those who live without love.” And right now, we’re all feeling that pinch of loss, wrapped in an abundance of love for a truly extraordinary woman, Dame Maggie Smith!
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This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
