Maggie Smith, an iconic figure in the world of stage and screen, had a career resurgence in the early 2000s that solidified her status as one of Britain’s most beloved and respected actresses. From playing the no-nonsense Professor Minerva McGonagall in the globally successful Harry Potter franchise to starring in critically acclaimed films like Gosford Park and The Lady in the Van, Smith continued to captivate audiences with her incredible versatility and impeccable talent. Below is a detailed look at this illustrious chapter in her career spanning from 2000 to 2009.
2000–2009: Harry Potter and Other Milestone Roles
Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter (2001–2011)
One of the most iconic roles in Maggie Smith’s career came when she was cast as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter film series. From 2001 to 2011, Smith brought the stern yet compassionate character to life, becoming a fan favorite across the globe. Notably, J.K. Rowling herself had personally requested Smith and Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid, for the roles. Smith starred in seven of the eight films in the series, reuniting with Daniel Radcliffe, with whom she had worked in the 1999 television adaptation of David Copperfield.
Her work in the Harry Potter films resonated with generations of viewers and helped elevate the series to its status as one of the most successful film franchises in cinematic history. With over $7.7 billion in worldwide box office receipts, the Harry Potter series is the third-highest-grossing film series of all time (without adjusting for inflation). Smith's portrayal of McGonagall remains an integral part of the franchise’s success.
While promoting The Lady in the Van in 2016, Smith fondly recalled her time on the Harry Potter set, especially her friendship with Alan Rickman (who portrayed Severus Snape). Reflecting on their long days of shooting, she recalled their shared laughter and their "200-and-something" reaction shots during filming. Their camaraderie brought levity to an otherwise intense filming schedule.
Gosford Park (2001)
In 2001, Smith once again showcased her remarkable range in the critically acclaimed ensemble film Gosford Park, directed by Robert Altman. The star-studded cast included British cinema greats such as Michael Gambon, Helen Mirren, Kristin Scott Thomas, and Stephen Fry. Smith's performance as the snobbish Constance, Countess of Trentham, earned her a sixth Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The film was praised by critics, including Roger Ebert, who gave it a glowing four-star review, comparing it to Altman’s best work. The success of Gosford Park reaffirmed Smith’s position as one of the finest actresses of her generation.
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002)
In 2002, Maggie Smith starred alongside Sandra Bullock and Ellen Burstyn in the dramatic comedy Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. The film, though receiving mixed reviews, was notable for the strong performances of its all-star female cast.
That same year, Smith also reunited with long-time collaborator Dame Judi Dench for David Hare's stage play The Breath of Life. The performance was yet another testament to the enduring magic that the two legendary actresses create when they share the screen or stage.
My House in Umbria (2003)
Smith’s versatility continued to shine through in 2003 when she took on the lead role of Mrs. Emily Delahunty in the HBO film My House in Umbria. Her poignant portrayal of a woman offering sanctuary to survivors of a terrorist attack earned her Primetime Emmy Award for Best Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie, along with another Golden Globe nomination.
Ladies in Lavender (2004) and Keeping Mum (2005)
Maggie Smith joined Judi Dench once again in the 2004 drama Ladies in Lavender, directed by Charles Dance. The quiet and deeply emotional film was praised for the performances of both Smith and Dench, further solidifying their onscreen chemistry.
In 2005, Smith starred in the black comedy Keeping Mum alongside Rowan Atkinson and Kristin Scott Thomas, displaying her flair for both humor and drama. That same year, she received another Primetime Emmy nomination for her role in the HBO television film Capturing Mary.
The Lady from Dubuque (2007)
In 2007, Maggie Smith took to the stage once more in a revival of Edward Albee's The Lady from Dubuque at London's Theatre Royal Haymarket. While the production itself garnered mixed reviews, critics unanimously praised Smith’s performance, with David Benedict of Variety declaring her performance as the "magnetically watchable" highlight of the play. Smith's ability to command the stage, even when the material faltered, demonstrated her enduring star power.
Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang (2010)
In 2010, Smith added yet another memorable role to her resume with her portrayal of Mrs. Docherty in Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang, starring opposite Emma Thompson. This whimsical, family-friendly film delighted younger audiences, proving that Smith's appeal transcended age and genre.
2010–2015: Downton Abbey and a Cultural Phenomenon
From 2010 to 2015, Maggie Smith delivered one of the most iconic performances of her career as the sharp-witted Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, in the British period drama Downton Abbey. Her witty one-liners and impeccable comedic timing made her a standout in a show that was a global sensation. The role earned her three Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and four Screen Actors Guild Awards, among many others.
Downton Abbey became a pop culture phenomenon, and Maggie Smith’s Dowager Countess became one of television's most beloved characters. In 2015, Smith announced that the sixth season of Downton Abbey would be her last, marking the end of a stellar run in one of the most popular TV series of the decade.
Maggie Smith: A Timeless Legend
Throughout the 2000s and beyond, Maggie Smith demonstrated time and again her unparalleled range as an actress. Whether it was on the big screen, the small screen, or the stage, Smith captivated audiences with her unique ability to imbue her characters with both depth and humor. Her contributions to the world of acting during this decade, from her portrayal of Minerva McGonagall to the Dowager Countess, have left an indelible mark on cinema and television history.
As the recipient of countless awards and accolades, including an Academy Award, multiple Emmys, Golden Globes, and a Damehood, Maggie Smith remains a national treasure of British acting and an international icon whose work continues to inspire and entertain.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence
Maggie Smith’s illustrious career, spanning over seven decades, is a testament to her extraordinary talent, versatility, and enduring appeal. From the grandeur of Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series to the sharp wit of the Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey, she has consistently delivered iconic performances that resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether dominating the stage or screen, her unmatched ability to bring depth, humor, and grace to every role solidifies her status as one of the greatest actresses of all time.
Maggie Smith is not just an actress but a cultural institution, whose work has become synonymous with excellence in both British and global cinema. As she continues to captivate audiences with her timeless performances, her legacy as a trailblazer and acting legend will undoubtedly live on for generations to come.ReaMore