Maggie Smith died on the same day as Michael Gambon, 1 year later

Two major stars of the "Harry Potter" franchise, Maggie Smith (Professor Minerva McGonagall) and Michael Gambon (Albus Dumbledore), share a poignant connection: both passed away on the same day, one year apart. The actress died this Friday (27th) at the age of 89. The actor passed away on September 27, 2023, at 82, due to pneumonia.

Maggie Smith's death was confirmed by her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, in a statement shared with CNN by her publicist, Claire Dobbs.

"An intensely private person, she was surrounded by friends and family at the end. She leaves behind two sons and five loving grandchildren, all devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother," the statement said.

The cause of her death was not disclosed. Across social media, many celebrities paid tribute to the beloved actress.

According to PA Media, the UK’s national news agency, Michael Gambon passed away from pneumonia, as stated in a family announcement.

Smith began her career in the 1950s and won her first Oscar for Best Actress in 1969, for her portrayal of an unconventional teacher in the film The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. However, her most iconic roles came later in life.

Gambon, on the other hand, left school at 15 to study engineering and was fully qualified by 21. He was also part of an amateur theater group and always knew he would pursue acting, he told The Herald in 2004. Gambon drew inspiration from American actors Marlon Brando and James Dean, believing they embodied the angst of youth.