Dame Maggie Smith: More Than Just the Dowager Countess and Professor McGonagall
Dame Maggie Smith, renowned for her portrayal of the acerbic Dowager Countess of Grantham in “Downton Abbey” and the formidable Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” series, deserves recognition for her extensive and multifaceted career beyond these iconic roles.
Her remarkable talent and versatility have graced both the stage and screen. Smith’s career, spanning over seven decades, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the craft of acting. A two-time Oscar winner, she also holds a Tony Award for her performance in “Lettice and Lovage,” leaving an indelible mark on the theatrical world. Those fortunate enough to have witnessed her stage performances attest to her remarkable adaptability, which extended seamlessly to her work in film and television.
Smith’s most recognized role is arguably that of the sharp-tongued Dowager Countess in “Downton Abbey,” a role she inhabited with effortless authenticity. However, her range extended far beyond the aristocratic and cynical. She effortlessly portrayed characters who were downtrodden, naive, and even vulnerable. Her penetrating gaze, reminiscent of a bloodhound, coupled with her distinctively raspy voice, held audiences spellbound, leaving an enduring impact. Her influence on fellow actors, including Susan Sarandon and Kathryn Hahn, and even musicians like Florence Welch, cannot be overstated. In the words of Jean Brodie, one of Smith’s most iconic characters, “If intelligence is to your taste, this woman will give you a feast.“
Smith’s career began in the theater, where she was recognized for her comedic timing and dramatic intensity. Born in Essex, she moved to Oxford with her family at the age of four. Even during her school years at Oxford High School, she was destined for the stage, showcasing her talent as Viola in an Oxford University Dramatic Society production of “Twelfth Night.” She quickly captured the attention of renowned theater directors like Peter Hall, earning prominent roles at the Old Vic. She shared the stage with legendary actors such as Kenneth Williams, her lifelong friend, and Laurence Olivier, in a production of “Othello.” During this period, she met her future husband, Robert Stephens, who was also a prominent actor.
Smith’s talent did not go unnoticed in Hollywood. In the film “The VIPs,” she held her own alongside the acclaimed Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, demonstrating her versatility and presence. Her portrayal of Philpot in Jack Clayton’s poignant drama “The Pumpkin Eater” garnered critical acclaim. This role allowed her to explore the complexities of human relationships, particularly the themes of delusion, domesticity, and infidelity, as depicted in Penelope Mortimer’s captivating novel. Smith’s masterful performance made Philpot both chilling and hilarious, a testament to her ability to inhabit characters with depth and nuance.
Smith’s Oscar-winning performance in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” solidified her status as a cinematic icon. Although some might find her portrayal a tad over-the-top, her portrayal of Jean Brodie’s neurotic intensity, with her constant fidgeting and tendency to gnaw on her fingers, is undeniably captivating.
Smith’s unwavering passion for the stage led her to collaborate with renowned director Ingmar Bergman. She graced the stage in productions like “Hedda Gabler” for the National Theatre, and starred opposite Stephens in Noel Coward’s“Private Lives.” However, their personal life became increasingly tumultuous, prompting Smith to relocate to Canada and later Los Angeles with her two sons, Chris and Toby.
Smith’s legacy is one of unparalleled talent, unwavering commitment, and enduring influence. Her performances, whether on stage, screen, or television, have left an unforgettable mark on the world of entertainment, solidifying her place as a true legend of the stage and screen. Dame Maggie Smith’s career, encompassing a wide array of memorable performances, extends far beyond the beloved characters of Dowager Countess of Grantham in “Downton Abbey” and Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” series. She is a multifaceted actress who has garnered critical acclaim across film, television, and theater.
Her second Academy Award was bestowed upon her for her supporting role in the 1978 film, “California Suite,” during which time she was married to Beverley Cross. In this film, she delivers sharp and witty dialogue with a modern sensibility that continues to resonate today. As Diana Barrie, a disheartened and disappointed Oscar nominee, she delivers lines that are both poignant and hilarious, reflecting a unique blend of humor and pathos.
During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Smith’s career was flourishing. She effortlessly transitioned between mainstream productions, such as “Death on the Nile” and “Evil Under the Sun,” and smaller indie films like “The Missionary” and “A Private Function.” Her collaboration with Alan Bennett was particularly fruitful. Their work on “Bed Among the Lentils,” an episode of the “Talking Heads” series, is known for its sharp wit and intelligence. Their collaboration on “The Lady in the Van” spanned various mediums, including stage, radio, and film, further solidifying their creative partnership.
In the 1987 film “The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne,” based on the Brian Moore novel, Smith portrays Judith, a lonely spinster, with a profound sense of vulnerability and heartbreak. Her performance in this film is considered to be among her most powerful. In Steven Spielberg’s “Hook,” she was cast as Wendy, a character who appears older than her actual age, showcasing her ability to transform physically and emotionally for a role.
While “Downton Abbey” and “Harry Potter” have cemented her place in popular culture, Smith’s legacy is far more extensive. Her career includes countless other performances that deserve recognition. Notably, she portrayed the formidable Lady Bracknell in a 1993 production of Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest.” However, for many, her iconic roles in “Downton Abbey” and “Harry Potter” remain unforgettable.
Despite these two prominent roles, Smith’s filmography is vast and diverse. She has graced the silver screen in countless films, showcasing her versatility and range as an actress. It is important to acknowledge the breadth of her career, which extends far beyond these two well-known characters. While widely recognized as the formidable Dowager Countess of Grantham, Dame Maggie Smith is far more than a single iconic role. In a candid interview, Smith revealed that she had never actually watched “Downton Abbey,” showcasing her remarkable ability to embrace her fame with a playful detachment.
A delightful 2018 documentary, titled “Nothing Like a Dame,” captures Smith’s infectious humor and self-deprecating wit. In the documentary, she is seen merrily poking fun at life’s absurdities, even death itself. Along with Judi Dench, Eileen Atkins, and Joan Plowright, Smith delves into the topic of funerals, revealing that Miriam Margolyes has meticulously planned hers. Smith, relishing her role as the “head ghoul,” quotes Dench’s assertion that she has “nothing sorted” because she “isn’t going to die.” With a sly grin, Smith drawls, “Which I know is true!” Then, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she suggests, “Shall we talk about something cheerier?“
For those who miss Smith’s vibrant presence, seeking out her lesser-known works is a surefire antidote to any melancholic mood. These hidden gems offer a deeper glimpse into the extraordinary talent and wit of Dame Maggie Smith.
