Smith gained widespread recognition for her roles in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, Downton Abbey, and the Harry Potter series. With her powerful performances and distinctive voice, she remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
1. Born on December 28, 1934, in Ilford, Essex, England.
2. Full name: Margaret Natalie Smith.
3. She has over 70 years of acting experience.
4. Won two Academy Awards, for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and California Suite.
5. Portrayed Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series.
6. Famous for Downton Abbey as Violet Crawley.
7. Made her stage debut in 1952.
8. Knighted as Dame in 1990.
9. Won a Tony Award in 1990 for Lettice and Lovage.
10. Overcame breast cancer in 2007.
11. Has five BAFTA awards.
12. Has three Golden Globes.
13. Performed Shakespeare plays at the National Theatre.
14. Received the BAFTA Fellowship in 1996.
15. Still active in film, television, and theatre well into her 80s.