News of Smith’s death was confirmed by her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin. “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,” they said in a statement.

Dame Maggie Smith and Sir Michael Gambon passed away at the age of 89 and 82 respectively, on the same date, exactly one year apart. Both actors had been actively contributing to the art of theatre and cinema for over seven and six decades respectively.

Harry Potter fans have come together to pay a beautiful tribute to the late Dame Maggie Smith, who died today, just hours after the news of her death was announced