10 Iconic Maggie Smith Roles That Defined Her Illustrious Career
Today, the world mourns the loss of Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away at the age of 89. A two-time Oscar winner, Smith was an iconic British actress celebrated for her quick wit and extraordinary talent on screen and stage. Over her illustrious career, she garnered two Academy Awards, five BAFTA Awards, four Emmy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award, becoming one of the few actors to achieve the coveted triple crown of acting.
In honor of her remarkable legacy, we take a look back at ten of her best roles that defined her unparalleled career.
1. Jean Brodie in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie”
“The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie,” released in 1968, stars Maggie Smith in the titular role. The film tells the story of Jean Brodie, a schoolteacher with a highly romanticized view of the world. Smith’s portrayal of the unorthodox teacher earned her widespread acclaim, including her first Oscar win for Best Actress. The film remains a classic to this day, highlighting Smith’s lasting impact on the industry. This role established her as a leading actress with significant longevity in Hollywood.
2. Miss Bowers in “Death on the Nile”
In “Death on the Nile,” Maggie Smith delivers a performance as the sharp-tongued and witty Miss Bowers. While the movie received mixed reviews, Maggie earned a Golden Globe nomination for her performance, demonstrating her ability to stand out in a lukewarm film. She provided both comic relief and insight into the mystery, and with her impeccable timing, Smith elevated the narrative, creating a performance that remains endearing to this day.
3. Diana Barrie in “California Suite”
“California Suite” was originally a play by Neil Simon that was on Broadway in 1976. In 1978, a film adaptation was made starring Alan Alda, Michael Caine, Jane Fonda, Richard Pryor, and Maggie Smith. With all of these Hollywood stars, the movie was a great success. Smith plays Diana, a British actress that is nominated for an Oscar despite a faltering career and failing marriage. Her portrayal showcases her remarkable range as she moves from comedic to dramatic elements of the role with ease. The performance earned Smith her second Oscar win, this time in the Best Supporting Actress category.
4. Charlotte Bartlett in “A Room with a View”
Maggie Smith played the role of Charlotte Bartlett in “A Room with a View,” which brought her further success. The romantic film was nominated for eight Oscars and won three, including Best Adapted Screenplay. Smith’s character, Charlotte, is an older woman who accompanies the young Lucy Honeychurch on her trip to Italy. As a guardian figure, Charlotte is strict yet caring. Her portrayal adds depth to the film’s exploration of romance and personal freedom, making her a memorable presence in this classic adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel.
5. Reverend Mother in “Sister Act”
In “Sister Act,” Maggie Smith plays the role of Reverend Mother, the head of a convent who is initially resistant to the changes brought about by the arrival of Deloris Van Cartier, played by Whoopi Goldberg. Smith’s performance embodies a blend of sternness and warmth, helping to convey the uplifting themes of the story. Goldberg wrote on Instagram, “Maggie Smith was a great woman and a brilliant actress. I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to work with a one-of-a-kind.”
6. Constance in “Gosford Park”
In “Gosford Park,” Maggie Smith plays the role of Constance, Countess of Trentham, an outspoken guest at an extravagant English party in the 1930s. Constance navigates the complexities of class and privilege throughout the film. Smith’s humorous yet poignant performance earned her another Academy Award nomination. The movie was written by Julian Fellowes, the creator of the series “Downton Abbey,” which was originally intended as a spinoff of the film but later developed into a standalone series.
7. Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” Franchise (2001-2011)
Maggie Smith earned global recognition for her performance as Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” franchise. She is a strict yet fair teacher who serves as a mentor to Harry and his friends. McGonagall plays an important role in the fight against Voldemort, showcasing her unique ability to transform into a cat. In a viral interview on “The Graham Norton Show,” she was once asked by a child if she actually transformed into a cat.
8. Jean Horton in “Quartet”
In “Quartet,” Maggie Smith plays Jean Horton, a retired opera singer living in a home for aging musicians. Her portrayal blends humor and vulnerability as Jean grapples with her past and present relationships. Smith’s ability to balance comedy and drama earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
9. Violet Crawley in “Downton Abbey”
Smith received international acclaim and three Emmy Awards for her performance in “Downton Abbey.” In the show, she plays the matriarch of the aristocratic family, often clashing with her more progressive relatives. Maggie delivers memorable one-liners, quickly becoming a beloved character after the series debuted. Throughout the show, Smith showcases themes of loyalty and family dynamics in her performance, making this one of her most recognizable roles to this day.
Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter that “Maggie Smith was a truly great actress and we were more than fortunate to be part of the last act in her stellar career. She was a joy to write for, subtle, many-layered, intelligent, funny and heart-breaking. Working with her has been the greatest privilege of my career, and I will never forget her.”
10. Lily Fox in “The Miracle Club” (Maggie Smith’s Final Role)
“The Miracle Club” features Smith in her final role, portraying a character who embarks on a trip from Ireland to Lourdes. She embarks on the journey with her friend, Eileen (Kathy Bates). Smith’s heartfelt performance received critical acclaim and was a touching tribute to her long career, highlighting her ability to bring depth and warmth to all her roles.
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