Dame Maggie Smith to be remembered in London's West End

Theatres in London's West End will dim their lights for two minutes at 7pm on Tuesday in memory of Dame Maggie Smith, following her death aged 89.

The British star, best known in recent years for roles in Harry Potter and TV drama Downton Abbey, died in hospital on Friday morning.

The King and Queen paid tribute to Dame Maggie, with a statement on X saying: "As the curtain comes down on a national treasure, we join all those around the world in remembering with the fondest admiration and affection her many great performances and her warmth and wit that shone through both off and on the stage."

Born in Ilford, east London, on December 28 1934, Dame Maggie was an internationally recognised actress for much of her life.

The double Oscar winner will be remembered for her versatile repertoire ranging from Shakespeare, to character parts in popular films and TV series.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called her a "true national treasure" and said she "introduced us to new worlds with the countless stories she acted over her long career".

She was made a dame in 1990 and her array of accolades include a fellowship and a special award from Bafta, as well as becoming a member of the Order of the Companions of Honour in 2014.

Confirming the death of their mother on Friday, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens said in a statement: "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."

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