Maggie Smith: a tribute in Downton Abbey 3

The world of cinema mourns the passing of Maggie Smith, iconic figure of the Downton Abbey series and films. The third opus, scheduled for September 12, 2025, promises a poignant tribute to the legendary actress.

A huge loss for Downton Abbey

Maggie Smith, who died last September at the age of 89, left her mark on the history of Downton Abbey with her unforgettable portrayal of Countess Violet Crawley. This central character of the series disappeared at the end of Downton Abbey 2: A New Era, leaving a void that the actress’s actual disappearance made even more palpable.

Executive producer Gareth Neame has said that Downton Abbey 3 will be an opportunity to pay double tribute: to the iconic character that was the Dowager, and to the actress who played her with such grace and talent. According to Neame, this loss lends a moving authenticity to the scenes in which the characters mourn the matriarch. The actors themselves, deeply respectful, translate their own grief into their performances.

A remarkable cinematic legacy

Known for her landmark roles, Maggie Smith won three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for her role in Downton Abbey. Her prolific career extended far beyond this series. An Oscar winner for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and California Suite, she also made her mark on cinema with performances in Chambre avec vue and Gosford Park. More recently, she appeared in The Miracle Club in 2023.

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