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Maggie Smith, the Oscar-winning actress best known for her roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, passed away on September 27, leaving behind a remarkable legacy and a family deeply rooted in the arts. Her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series was particularly beloved, prompting heartfelt tributes from the cast and crew of the franchise.
Smith’s nearly 70-year career showcased her incredible talent on both stage and screen. However, beyond her professional achievements, she was a devoted mother to her two sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, whom she had with her ex-husband, Robert Stephens.
Who are Maggie Smith’s children?
Christopher Larkin Stephens
Christopher Larkin Stephens, born on June 19, 1967, is the eldest son of Maggie Smith. He chose to drop the “Stephens” from his stage name to carve out his own identity in the acting world. In a 2013 interview with The Times, he explained that he wanted to distance himself from the expectations that came with his famous last name, and he has no plans to revert to it.
Chris made his mark in the industry with a notable role as Richard Brown in the popular series Outlander, which debuted in its fifth season. Despite his efforts to establish his own career, he has often acknowledged the significant influence of both his parents on his acting journey. Chris currently lives in London with his wife, Suki, and their children.
Toby Stephens
Toby Stephens, born on April 21, 1969, is Maggie Smith’s younger son. Although he grew up in the shadow of his mother’s fame, he has emphasized that his upbringing was not particularly privileged, despite the assumptions made by casting directors based on his accent.
After graduating from the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art in 1991, Toby quickly entered the acting world. His early career highlights include playing the title role in Coriolanus with the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1994. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Bond villain Gustav Graves in Die Another Day, making him the youngest actor to play a Bond antagonist.
In 2018, Toby joined the cast of Netflix’s Lost in Space, where he played John Robinson. The show ran for several seasons before concluding in 2021.
Both Christopher and Toby have successfully carved out their own paths in the acting world, honoring their mother’s legacy while establishing their identities as performers. As the world remembers Dame Maggie Smith, her contributions to film and theater, along with her role as a mother, will be cherished by many.