Dame Maggie Smith’s Son Reflects on Heartbreaking Final Moments

Dame Maggie Smith’s son, Toby Stephens, opens up about her final moments before her passing at age 89. Despite health struggles, Maggie encouraged her son’s career and remained a loving figure until the very end. Her legacy is celebrated by fans, highlighting her humility and beloved status.

In a touching revelation about his late mother, Dame Maggie Smith, her son Toby Stephens has opened up about her final moments. The cherished actress, known for her roles in “Downton Abbey” and the “Harry Potter” films, passed away last September at the age of 89. Toby and his brother, Chris Larkin, have since expressed their heartbreak and gratitude, remembering their mother as an exceptional parent and grandmother in a statement following her death.

According to Toby, Maggie’s health had been on a rollercoaster ride for the last two years. “She was in hospital. She was supposed to be coming out. But the last two years of her life had been a decline: she would get worse, then she would get better, then she would get worse.” Despite this ongoing struggle, she encouraged Toby to continue his acting career, even suggesting he go to New Zealand to film a horror movie.

In a moment that showcased her one-of-a-kind spirit, Maggie told Toby, “Go do it. God, you don’t want to hang round here, I’m fine.” However, the situation took a turn for the worse shortly after Toby arrived, as doctors informed him that her condition wouldn’t improve. What a buzzkill, huh? He recalls that their last conversation was filled with everything that needed saying. “I’d spent hours and days sitting with her at home and in hospital over the course of two years, and there was nothing I had left unsaid.”

Maggie Smith died on September 27, just a day before the filming of her final project, “Marama,” wrapped up. With Toby’s wife and kids present during her final hospital moments, it sounds like they rallied round her like a true family should. Chris Larkin, Toby’s brother, was by her side too and stated he felt “so sad” having to miss those last moments.

He noted, “I found that very difficult, but she was no longer aware. And it allowed me some space to actually get my head round what had happened.” When something so pivotal occurs, it’s tough to process it all, isn’t it?

In the wake of Maggie’s passing, Toby has been particularly touched by the love and support coming from fans. People remembered her legacy fondly, both from stage and screen performances that spawned a whole lot of warmth in the hearts of those lucky enough to have seen her work. Toby reflected: “What really got me was: it’s very rare that you have actors that everyone likes. And she had spent her life not thinking of herself like that, which is very winning.” We couldn’t agree more! Being humble in the face of fame is no easy feat, but Maggie Smith seemed to nail it.

To sum it all up, Toby Stephens has fascinatingly shared the poignant details of his late mother, Dame Maggie Smith’s final moments. Despite her health struggles, she remained an encouraging presence up until the end. Her legacy continues to resonate with fans, reflecting her humility and the warm affection with which she was held. In the end, it’s clear that her impact went far beyond acting.

Original Source: www.express.co.uk