Actress Dame Maggie Smith, born Margaret Natalie Smith in December 1934, passed away peacefully at 89 in London on Friday, September 27, 2024. Her family confirmed the news of her demise in a statement, noting that she departed in a hospital early this morning, surrounded by her friends and family. The cause of death was unknown.
Her death comes after prolonged health battles, such as Graves' Disease and breast cancer. Smith leaves behind her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkins, and five grandchildren. The Oscar-winner, who boasts countless stage awards, was most known for her work on Downton Abbey and in the Harry Potter franchise as Professor McGonagall.
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Maggie Smith revealed struggling with Graves' Disease was like a "fog of despair"
Maggie Smith first opened up about struggling with Graves' disease and thyroid eye disease in 1988, when she described it as a "fog of despair" in an interview. Graves' Disease is an autoimmune disorder that can culminate in hyperthyroidism or the excessive production of thyroid hormones. These hormones are essential in regulating normal bodily functions, such as heart rate and body temperature, and can even culminate in heart failure.
The disease had serious implications on her health, contributing to her sickly appearance in the later stages of her life. In an interview with the New York Times, she described some of the symptoms she experienced, including irritated and bulging eyes, making her look "absolutely frightening." Express UK reported.
"It was ghastly having a broken arm; ghastly with the play, letting everybody down; and on top of that, I looked absolutely frightening, and didn't know which way to turn."
She had to undergo radiotherapy and optical surgery to control the symptoms. Her breast cancer diagnosis came to light in 2007, but it was revealed that she recovered completely.
Maggie Smith's sons issue a heartfelt statement in light of their mother's passing, calling for privacy
In the statement, the sons reflected on their mother's memory.
"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."
The statement continued, thanking the hospital staff for caring for her during her final moments.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”
Dame Margaret Natalie Smith was born on December 28, 1934. Her career spanned over 7 decades, and she boasted several accolades, including two Academy Awards, five BAFTA Awards, four Emmy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award. She was among the few performing women to earn the Triple Crown of Acting.
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