Maggie Smith, the iconic British actress whose career spanned over 60 years, has died at 89. Her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, confirmed the news, stating she passed peacefully.

Smith, known for roles such as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” films and the Dowager Countess of Grantham in “Downton Abbey,” was beloved by generations. With over 50 films to her name, she was regarded as one of Britain’s finest actresses.

Throughout her career, Smith earned numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, five BAFTAs, four Emmys, three Golden Globes, and a Tony Award. In 1990, she was honored as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

Born in Ilford, Essex, Smith moved to Oxford at age 4, where she later attended the Oxford Playhouse to study acting. She made her stage debut in 1952 and earned her first Oscar nomination for 1965’s “Othello.”

Smith won her first Oscar for “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and another in 1979 for “California Suite.” Despite a varied career, she achieved worldwide fame with “Harry Potter” and later in “Downton Abbey,” where her role as the Dowager Countess won her several awards, including three Emmys.