Maggie Smith’s Marital History: Learn About Her Marriages Following the Death of the Harry Potter Star at Age 89

Beloved actress Maggie Smith tragically passed away on September 27, 2024, at the age of 89. While the specific circumstances surrounding her death have yet to be officially confirmed, her sons indicated she was at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital at the time.

The announcement of her passing was made public by her sons, Toby and Chris, who are the product of her first marriage to Robert Stephens in 1967. After divorcing Stephens, Maggie married Alan Beverly Cross in 1975.

Maggie Smith rose to widespread fame for her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter film series. Additionally, both of her husbands were involved in the entertainment industry, with Robert gaining acclaim on stage and in films and Beverly being a screenwriter for notable projects like The Long Ships.

The children of Maggie Smith shared their sorrow in a statement to the BBC, expressing that she was surrounded by family and friends during her final moments. They also stated:

“She leaves behind two sons and five beloved grandchildren who are heartbroken by the loss of their remarkable mother and grandmother.”

Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin expressed their gratitude to the hospital staff, while also requesting privacy as they navigate their grief. Notably, both sons have followed in Maggie’s footsteps, carving out their own successful careers in acting.

Maggie Smith enjoyed a prolific career spanning over seven decades. After making her mark on the stage, she transitioned to television where she played Violet Crawley in the acclaimed ITV historical drama, Downton Abbey.

In addition to her recognizable roles in films such as Ladies in Lavender, Keeping Mum, and Becoming Jane, her performances earned her numerous prestigious awards.

Exploring Maggie Smith’s Personal Life

The Ilford, Essex native garnered a vast following through her extraordinary contributions to film, television, and theatre over the past 72 years. Beyond her artistic achievements, Maggie Smith’s personal life also attracted considerable media attention throughout her career.

As previously mentioned, Maggie was first married to Robert Stephens, a relationship that blossomed after they met at The Old Vic theatre in London.

The couple wed in 1967, welcoming their first son, Chris Larkin, the same year, followed by another son, Toby Stephens, born in April 1969.

Smith and Stephens also starred together in films such as The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. However, their marriage faced challenges, especially when Stephens allegedly attempted suicide during a 1970 performance of The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes, as reported by People.

Complications in their relationship arose from reported infidelities on Stephens’ part, which he later acknowledged in an interview with Evening Standard in 1991. The couple ultimately separated in 1973, although Maggie revealed in a 2004 interview with The Guardian that she still held feelings for Robert.

Maggie Smith’s second marriage was to Alan Beverley Cross, whom she met in 1952 while attending Oxford University. Smith revealed to The Guardian that Cross proposed to her when she was just 18 years old, despite being married at the time. They finally exchanged vows in 1975 after his divorce. Tragically, Alan passed away from an aneurysm in 1998.

Maggie is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren. Official details regarding her funeral and the cause of death are still forthcoming.

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