Dame Maggie Smith, a cherished icon of British cinema and theatre, has graced both stage and screen with her remarkable talent for over eight decades.
From her early performances in Shakespearean plays to her unforgettable roles in globally beloved films, Smith’s career is a testament to her range and enduring appeal.
Desdemona – Othello
One of Dame Maggie Smith’s most iconic early roles was as Desdemona in Shakespeare’s Othello. The opportunity came in 1963 when Sir Laurence Olivier, who starred as Othello, offered her the part at the National Theatre.
The play’s production was later adapted into a film in 1965, earning Smith an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Despite her success, Smith reflected in later years that she approached the role with great discomfort and felt terrified, admitting that Shakespeare was not her forte.
Jean Brodie – The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
In 1969, Smith’s portrayal of the non-conformist teacher Jean Brodie in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie brought her international fame. The film, adapted from Muriel Spark’s 1961 novel, is set in 1930s Edinburgh and is based on the author’s real-life inspirational teacher.
This role won Smith a Best Actress Oscar. It was during this time she married co-star Robert Stephens, adding a personal milestone to her professional success.
Betsey Trotwood – David Copperfield
Smith’s role as Betsey Trotwood in the BBC adaptation of David Copperfield garnered critical acclaim at the turn of the century.
Her performance earned her Bafta and Emmy nominations. Notably, she starred alongside a young Daniel Radcliffe, her future co-star in the Harry Potter series.
Professor McGonagall – Harry Potter
Smith introduced herself to a new generation as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films, beginning with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in 2001.
Her portrayal of the formidable Professor appeared in all eight films, and she was the only actor specifically requested by author JK Rowling. Her dedication was evident when she continued working on Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince despite undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
Violet Crawley – Downton Abbey
During her time with the Harry Potter series, Smith also excelled as Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, in the hit series Downton Abbey. This role, which she played from 2010 to 2015, further showcased her remarkable talent.
Her performance as the sharp-witted matriarch earned her numerous awards, including three Primetime Emmys and a Golden Globe. Smith reprised this role in the Downton Abbey films of 2019 and 2022.
Mary Shepherd – The Lady in the Van
One of Smith’s standout later roles was as Mary Shepherd in The Lady in the Van. This 2015 comedy-drama saw her playing a homeless woman living in playwright Alan Bennett’s driveway.
Critically acclaimed for her ‘terrifically good’ and ‘magnificent’ performance, Smith received a Golden Globe nomination and a Bafta nomination. This role was familiar territory for Smith, who had first played Mary Shepherd on stage in 1999, earning an Olivier Award nomination.
Dame Maggie Smith’s career is an illustrious tapestry of varied and memorable performances, each showcasing her exceptional versatility as an actress.
From Shakespearean tragedies to modern cinematic landmarks, her roles have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide, cementing her legacy in the annals of performing arts.
