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In memoriam: Dame Maggie Smith

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We’re devastated to hear of the death of Dame Maggie Smith, whose career has spanned the theatrical, film and television world without equal.

Her relationship with the National Theatre began in its very first season in 1963, working alongside Laurence Olivier at the Old Vic.

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Hedda Gabler (1970). Maggie Smith as Hedda Gabler. Photo by Zoe Dominic.

From her defining performances in Hedda Gabler, Miss Julie and Hay Fever to the first performances of now-classic plays by Osborne and Shaffer, she will forever be remembered as one of the greatest actors this country has had the inestimable pleasure of witnessing. Her deep intelligence, effortless dexterity, sublime craft and sharp wit were simply legendary.

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Hay Fever (1964). Maggie Smith as Myra. Photo Angus McBean.

The National Theatre is reeling today, and we send our deepest condolences to Maggie’s family and her legions of admirers across the world and in every generation.

Rufus Norris, Director National Theatre

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Miss Julie (1966). Maggie Smith as Miss Julie. Photo by Angus Mcbean.

History with the National Theatre

During her career, Dame Maggie performed the following roles.

  • Silvia in The Recruiting Officer (1963)
  • Hilde Wangel in The Master Builder (1964)
  • Myra Arundel in Hay Fever (1964)
  • Desdemona in Othello (1964)
  • Avonia Bunn in Trelawny of the “Wells” (1965)
  • Miss Julie in Miss Julie (1965)
  • Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing (1965)
  • Marcela in A Bond Honoured (1966)
  • Clea in Black Comedy (1966)
  • Mrs Sullen in The Beaux’ Stratagem (1970)
  • Hedda Tesman in Hedda Gabler (1970)
  • Halina Rodziewiczowna in Coming in to Land (1986)

She also reprised her role as Mrs Sullen in The Beaux’ Stratagem for our anniversary celebration, National Theatre 50 Years on Stage.

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A black and white photo of a person with a short haircut, wearing a light-colored coat and a scarf. They are looking upwards with a serious and contemplative expression. The background is blurred.
A black and white photo of a person with a short haircut, wearing a light-colored coat and a scarf. They are looking upwards with a serious and contemplative expression. The background is blurred.
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