Maggie Smith, the legend of British film and theatre, passed away last week at 89, after delivering countless memorable performances over seven decades. She showcased her incredible range in a variety of different genres and mediums, winning the Triple Crown of Acting, and here are five of her most iconic roles.
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
Smith won her first Oscar for the titular role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, the tale of an eccentric teacher at a Scottish all-girls school trying to make an impression on impressionable young students.
California Suite
Smith’s second Oscar came almost a decade later, for her supporting turn in a star-studded anthology comedy California Suite, which centers on a group of guests staying at a luxury hotel in Los Angeles.
Harry Potter
A new generation of fans was introduced to Smith during the 2000s when she joined the Harry Potter franchise as Minerva McGonagall, the Hogwarts professor and the head of Gryffindor House.
Sister Act
Smith showed off her comedic chops in several box office hits during the 90s, including Sister Act. She played Reverend Mother at a convent who’s hesitant about taking in a nightclub singer trying to hide from the mob.
Downton Abbey
Smith still stayed in the prime of her career through the 2010s thanks to Downton Abbey. The role of the sharp-tongued Dowager Countess won her three Emmy Awards, and she later reprised it in two sequel films.
