How do you become a Dame? Meaning behind honorific British title explored as Maggie Smith passes away at 89

Downton Abbey star Maggie Smith recently died from unknown causes on September 27, 2024, at the age of 89. Although the actress had multiple credits in her list over the years, she was known for appearing in the Harry Potter franchise as Professor Minerva McGonagall.

According to BBC, Maggie’s children Toby and Chris stated that she passed away at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. They mentioned that “she was with friends and family at the end.”

Notably, she was named Dame in 1990 after becoming a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1969. The title is received by those who have provided the best services to society, and the efforts are later recognized by the reigning monarch and the honors committee.

Social media platforms were flooded with tributes when people heard about Maggie Smith’s death. The official Facebook page of Harry Potter also expressed grief by adding a black-and-white photo, describing her as a “shining force” in all the films. The post reads:

“Her quick wit and formidable presence as the Head of Gryffindor house made sure Hogwarts was always safe in hands.”

Furthermore, Downtown Abbey’s social media page also shared a tribute post with a picture, calling Maggie Smith a “true British icon.” The National Theatre additionally paid tribute on Facebook by writing:

“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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Maggie Smith was made a Dame during the 90s: Meaning and other details explained

Also known as Margaret Natalie Smith, she was named a Dame Commander of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth in December 1989. Apart from her, various other personalities were honored at the event, including actor Michael Gambon and author V.S. Naipaul.

Dame usually refers to someone whose position is similar to a knight for women and is the most senior honor in the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, as per The Sun. A Dame also holds other honors, like OBE, and it is given when a person has contributed at every level to the country.

The person receiving the title could belong to any field, including music and sports. The selection process starts with the monarch searching for someone whose work has enhanced the reputation of Britain and left an impact on the lives of others.

People can also visit the official website of the UK government to choose their nominations for the honor. After the nominees are finalized, the honors committee would check if they are eligible to receive the title. Apart from being named the Dame, Maggie Smith was given the title of Companion of Honour in 2014.

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Maggie Smith and her journey in brief

The Ilford, Essex native remained a part of the theatre despite grabbing important characters in films and television. Maggie's small screen debut happened in an episode of the BBC Sunday-Night Theatre.

She became famous after playing minor roles on TV shows like The Adventures of Aggie, Play of the Month, and The Merchant of Venice. Smith even appeared in films like The Honey Pot and Clash of the Titans.

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Smith is survived by her children, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, as well as five grandchildren.