5 Iconic Roles That Maggie Smith Will Be Remembered By

Hollywood bid farewell to the British acting legend Maggie Smith this past week, with fans taking to social media to reflect on her most iconic roles. If you want to celebrate her life and legacy by watching some of her movies and TV shows, these five are not to be missed.

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie

Smith’s rise to prominence started during the 50s and 60s, and the Oscar-winning role of the free-spirited teacher Miss Jean Brodie was one of her most iconic performances from this area.

California Suite

Smith has always been a great supporting player, and we’ve seen her receive several Oscar nominations in this category. She eventually won an Academy Award for California Suite, the anthology comedy about a quirky group of characters staying at a lavish LA hotel.

Sister Act

Smith’s comedic timing has always been on point, and we’ve seen her embrace her dry wit in several hit comedies, including the Sister Act franchise during the 90s.

Harry Potter

Smith also found box office success with the role of Minerva McGonagall, the strict but fair Hogwarts professor who helped guide Harry Potter and the rest of Gryffindor students on the right path.

Downton Abbey

Smith cemented her status as a pop culture icon with her role in the hit period drama Downton Abbey, and the portrayal of Dowager Countess eventually won her three Emmy Awards.

5 Best Ways to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

They say that the comparison is the thief of...

5 Best Red Carpet Trends From the 2025 Golden Globes 

The Golden Globe Awards kicked off awards season with...

Best Ways to Stick to Your New Year’s Fitness Resolutions in 2025

“Working out more” is one of the most common...