Another national treasure has shed her mortal coil.
Known to my generation of course for her Oscar winning performance in The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie and perhaps to younger audiences for playing Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films.
And of course, although I have never partaken myself, she starred in the very popular Downton Abbey on TV, and I believe 2 feature films.
Thank you Dame Maggie for making our world a little brighter for so many years.
Yes, sad news. I don't remember seeing her in anything other than The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie to be honest. Didn't even know she was in the Harry Potter films (never seen one). Never watched Downton Abbey except for a Christmas special one year.
It's slightly alarming to think that she was in her mid 30s when she played Jean Brodie. I watched the film as a kid, and I thought the idea that she was in her "prime" was meant to be a joke. But it was perfectly true!
A national treasure, no doubt about it.
Been meaning to see The Lady In The Van for ages, so that's jumped up the list for sure.
Started watching Downton Abbey just last week. Up until now I didn't think it would be my thing, but it's very, very good and I'm thoroughly enjoying it. Dame Maggie is wonderful in the part. I thought she was just there to be the cameo dragon lady but she's incredibly funny. The writing is good and storylines get to the point quickly and accurately without all the unwelcome soap opera cliffhangers. Starting series 2 tonight.