Maggie Smith, the beloved British actress whose career spanned over seven decades and included some of the most iconic roles in film and television, has passed away at the age of 89. 

The acclaimed star, best known for her iconic performances as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films and as the witty Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey, died peacefully early this morning (Sept. 27) at a London hospital.

Her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, confirmed the devastating news in a heartfelt statement to USA TODAY. 

"It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday, 27th September," the statement reads. "An intensely private person, she was surrounded by friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother. 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."

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Smith's life and career were as illustrious as they were long-lasting. Born Margaret Natalie Smith on December 28, 1934, in Ilford, East London, she moved with her family to Oxford at the onset of World War II. 

Her father worked as a pathologist at Oxford University, where Smith's love for acting blossomed. After graduating from high school, she attended the Oxford Playhouse School from 1951 to 1953, and in 1952, she made her stage debut in a production of William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night with the Oxford University Dramatic Society.

Her stage career continued to flourish, but it was in film and television that Smith achieved global recognition. She won her first Academy Award for Best Actress in 1969 for her role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. In 1978, she added a second Oscar to her accolades, winning Best Supporting Actress for her performance in California Suite.

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In later years, Smith found renewed fame with younger audiences. She charmed millions with her portrayal of Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter franchise, bringing J.K. Rowling's beloved character to life across all eight films. She also became a household name in television with her portrayal of the sharp-tongued Dowager Countess of Grantham in the critically acclaimed BBC series Downton Abbey, a role that earned her three Primetime Emmy Awards and endeared her to fans worldwide.

Smith's private life was often kept out of the spotlight. She was married twice: first to actor Robert Stephens, with whom she had her two sons before their divorce in 1974, and later to playwright Beverley Cross, her husband from 1975 until his death in 1998.

In their statement, Smith's sons reflected on their mother's legacy, describing her as "an extraordinary woman who balanced a groundbreaking career with an unwavering commitment to her family. Her brilliance on screen was only matched by her grace and dignity off it. She was a fierce advocate for those she loved, and her strength during difficult times was an inspiration."

Smith's passing marks the end of an era for the entertainment industry. 

Her career not only spanned multiple generations but also left an indelible mark on film, television, and theater. Fans and colleagues across the world mourn the loss of a truly remarkable talent, whose contributions to the arts will be remembered for years to come.