Dame Maggie Smith, the beloved actress known for her role as Lady Violet Crawley in 'Downton Abbey', passed away at the age of 89 on September 27, 2024. While her absence from the upcoming film 'Downton Abbey 3' has been noted, it was clarified that her character had already died in the previous film, 'Downton Abbey: A New Era'. Hugh Bonneville expressed the sentiment that while Smith's presence will be missed, the new film will bring warmth and fun with fresh talent joining the cast. Smith, who had a storied career spanning stage and screen, was known for her candidness about her work, admitting she never watched her performances in 'Downton Abbey' due to frustration with her portrayals. Despite her iconic status, Smith remained humble about her fame, often reflecting on her unexpected journey in acting. 'Downton Abbey 3' is set for release next year, continuing the legacy of the series she helped define.