Maggie Smith's 'career defining' role as Edinburgh teacher Miss Brodie as Dame dies

Dame Maggie Smith passed away in hospital on Friday
-Credit: (Image: IMDb)


An icon of British acting has passed away, with Dame Maggie Smith's sons confirming her death in hospital.

The acclaimed actress was known for roles in Harry Potter, Downton Abbey and of course the Edinburgh-set film The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.

In a statement issued via their publicist, her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens said: “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.

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“An intensely private person, she was with 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."

“We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time."

Maggie Smith rose to prominence after her role as Miss Jean Brodie, which was filmed at Edinburgh Academy with scenes also in Greyfriars Churchyard, Dalmeny House and Barnbougle Castle.

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It tells the story of a headstrong teacher in a private school in '30s Edinburgh, who ignores the curriculum and influences her 12-year-old charged with an 'over-romanticised' view of the world.

Maggie won an Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her portrayal of Jean, also receiving a BAFTA for Best Actress.

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In the film, Miss Brodie takes her pupils on a walk around Edinburgh, gliding down the Vennel. These steps lead to the Grassmarket and overlooks Edinburgh Castle.

On the 100th anniversary of the birth of the author, Muriel Spark, a plaque commemorating her most famous character was erected and can be spotted at the bottom of the Vennel. The sign reads ‘The Steps of Miss Jean Brodie’.

Elsewhere in the city, Miss Brodie lives on 5 Admiral Terrace in Bruntsfield. The author herself actually lived nearby.