Dame Maggie Smith dies aged 89 – Fans startled by her final public appearance

Dame Maggie Smith dies aged 89 – Fans startled by her final public appearance

Dame Maggie Smith, Downtown Abbey and Harry Potter star, died aged 89, her family confirms.

A two time Oscar winner and a legend of the stage and screen, Smith was regarded one of the greatest actors of her time. She started her acting career on stage at the Oxford Playhouse and went on to make a name for herself and remained under the limelight for a stunning number of years.

The news of her sudden passing was shared by her two sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin.
“She died quietly this morning, Friday, September 27, in the hospital. A deeply private individual, she passed away surrounded by loved ones,” their joint statement read.

“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,” it continued.

“We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time,” Smith’s sons concluded.

Throughout her long and rich career, Smith appeared in feature films such as Sister Act, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and more recently Thaddeus O’Sullivan’s The Miracle Club.

Back in 2009, Smith disclosed with the public that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She opened up about receiving treatments and filming scenes as Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince at the same time.

“I used to go to treatment on my own, and nearly everybody else was with somebody,” she told Tim Teeman. “I wouldn’t have liked that. Why would you want to make anybody sit in those places?”

She had also opened up about her own mortality. “I was relieved to be the age I was because by now you feel like it’s all over anyway.

“That’s why I hated seeing young people receiving treatment [at the Royal Marsden Hospital, London]. I couldn’t bear that, it didn’t seem fair. To be honest, you feel so ghastly you wouldn’t mind dying a lot of the time.”

Smith was married twice. Her second husband, screenwriter Beverley Cross, whom she considered the great love of her life, passed away in 1998, leaving her mourning his loss until her own passing.

She wasn’t known as someone who was spotted in public often, so her last public appearance left her fans startled.
It was at the Wimbledon men’s singles final that Smith was spotted in public. Dressed elegantly, in a navy blue shirtdress with a stylish dot pattern on it accessorized with a blue jacket and black leather heels, she stunned many.

The photos of her and her stunning choice of outfit, which she had completed with a pink lipstick, received plenty of comments. “So elegant!” one person commented. “You [look] so beautiful,” another added.

Following her passing, tributes came pouring in. Prime Minister Keir Starmer was among the first to share his condolences, saying Smith “was beloved by so many for her great talent, becoming a true national treasure whose work will be cherished for generations to come.”

Hugh Bonneville, fellow Downtown Abbey co-star, said: “Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit and formidable talent.

“She was a true legend of her generation and thankfully will live on in so many magnificent screen performances. My condolences to her boys and wider family.”

Smith’s passing represents an immense loss for the acting world. May she rest in peace.

Kаyliеаnn’s Рiсturе Dаy: Ехрrеssing Individuаlity аnd Insрiring Неаrts

Picture day is a thrilling event for many children, allowing them to showcase their unique style. However, for some, likе three-year-old Kaylieann Steinbach, it can be an intimidating experience. Kaylieann, who faces profound hearing loss, was eagerly anticipating picture day. Nevertheless, her disappointment in the clothes her parents selected led her to take matters into her own hands and express her individuality.

Kaylieann’s adoration for superheroes, particularly Superman and Supergirl, is well-known. Due to her hearing loss, she affectionately refers to them as “Pooterman” and “Pootergirl.” Naturally, when presented with various outfit options, Kaylieann insisted on wearing her beloved “Pootergirl” costume.

Supportive and understanding, Kaylieann’s parents, Austin and Cristina Steinbach, wholeheartedly embraced her decision. As Kaylieann confidently stood before the camera, dressed in her superhero attire, her joy radiated through the lens. To complete her picture day look, she even brought along a superhero doll as her loyal companion. Kaylieann’s unique sense of style has made her a trendsetter at school. According to Austin, she frequently dons different costumes, and both her teachers and classmates eagerly anticipate the daily unveiling of her superhero ensembles. Inspired by his daughter’s independence, Austin shаrеd Kaylieann’s class photo on Reddit, hoping to spread joy and celebrate her indomitable spirit. Little did he know the tremendous impact it would have. The post was inundated with a flood of supportive messages, particularly from the deaf community

Supportive and understanding, Kaylieann’s parents, Austin and Cristina Steinbach, wholeheartedly embraced her decision. As Kaylieann confidently stood before the camera, dressed in her superhero attire, her joy radiated through the lens. To complete her picture day look, she even brought along a superhero doll as her loyal companion. Kaylieann’s unique sense of style has made her a trendsetter at school. According to Austin, she frequently dons different costumes, and both her teachers and classmates eagerly anticipate the daily unveiling of her superhero ensembles. Inspired by his daughter’s independence, Austin shаrеd Kaylieann’s class photo on Reddit, hoping to spread joy and celebrate her indomitable spirit. Little did he know the tremendous impact it would have. The post was inundated with a flood of supportive messages, particularly from the deaf community.

“The reaction and support from the deaf community is astounding,” Austin expressed in an interview. “I never expected her picture to touch so many hearts. It’s been overwhelming to receive all the messages of kindness and encouragement.” Kaylieann’s story stands as a true testament to her courage and resilience. Despite the challenges she faces with her hearing, she fearlessly chose to be herself on picture day. In the eyes of many, including myself, she embodies the spirit of a real superhero. Kaylieann, you are an incredibly brave and inspiring young girl. In my eyes, you are the true superhero! If you find Kaylieann’s story as wonderful as I do, please shаrе this article and spread the joy she brings!