Hook is an amazing adventure movie that was released in 1991 and directed by none other than Steven Spielberg.
The story follows Peter Banning, also known as Peter Pan, who has forgotten all about his childhood memories. He comes face to face with the infamous villain Captain Hook, brilliantly portrayed by Dustin Hoffman, and navigates his magical world of Neverland.
The movie features a talented cast including Maggie Smith as Granny Wendy, Julia Roberts as Tinker Bell, and Bob Hoskins as Mr. Smee.
But, do you know how old was Maggie Smith in Hook?
Maggie Smith looks like a seasoned veteran in the 1991 classic “Hook,” though what may come as a shock to many is that she was only 56 when the movie was filmed. She plays Granny Wendy Darling, who is estimated to be around 92 years old, despite having the look and composure of someone much older.
This classic cinematic adaptation of J. M. Barrie’s 1911 novel Peter and Wendy is an absolute must-see for any fan of adventure films! Prepare yourself for thrilling action scenes, breathtaking visuals, and a captivating story – it’s truly one for the ages!
How old was Maggie Smith in Hook? (1991)
Maggie Smith might have looked older than her years in the classic 1991 Steven Spielberg movie, Hook. She plays Granny Wendy Darling in the film, who is supposed to be 92 years old, but incredible make-up artists were able to convincingly rewind Maggie’s age as she was only 56 at the time!
Maggie had an extensive career before filming ‘Hook’, and even starred in the Harry Potter franchise as Professor Minerva McGonagall when she was already well into her sixties. This means that many of us have come to remember her as an older woman, although she wasn’t quite that elderly back in 1991!
At the time of making ‘Hook’, Smith already held two Oscar awards under her belt with over 80 acting credits on television and film. Her career has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it even appears like she will live forever within our collective memories here on earth.
Maggie Smith’s five most important roles
Jean Brodie – The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969)
Maggie Smith was already an established actor when she starred as Jean Brodie in the classic 1969 film, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. Despite being in her fifties at the time, Smith captivated audiences with her emotionally restrained yet powerful performance as a teacher at a girls’ school.
Her portrayal earned her great critical acclaim and even an Oscar for best actress in a leading role.
Whether it was the witty one-liners or the impassioned speeches to her students, Maggie revealed the depth of emotions this character truly possessed and demonstrated why she is still revered today as one of the greatest actresses of all time.
Though it has been five decades since The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie first debuted, Maggie Smith continues to leave a lasting impact on both filmmakers and viewers alike. It’s no wonder then that she is still remembered so fondly by many to this day!
Augusta Bertram – Travels with My Aunt (1972)
Maggie Smith truly shines as the timeless character of Augusta Bertram in 1972’s classic film ‘Hook’. Despite being a mere sixteen at the time of its making, Smcane plays the role with such energy and aptitude that she makes her character come across as twice her age.
The legendary director, George Cukor, truly found a gem in Maggie who added flavor to this historic adaptation of Graham Greene’s Travels with My Aunt. With her captivating intellect and knowledge at playing a woman beyond her years, Smith takes control of every scene and establishes Augusta Bertram as an iconic figure in this time-honored classic.
Diana Barrie – California Suite (1978)
Maggie Smith made her mark playing British actress Diana Barrie in the 1978 classic film “Hook.” She was just over 50 years old at the time, and her role as the struggling actress nominated for her first Oscar represented a major milestone in her career.
The movie itself got mixed reviews, but Smith’s performance was widely praised; she won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Drama for her effort in the movie.
Although not as well known as “Hook,” Maggie Smith also starred in California Suite four before taking up the role of Diana Barrie; this is another excellent showcase of her talent and range as an actress.
Minerva McGonagall – Harry Potter Franchise (2001-2011)
Maggie Smith is truly iconic in her role as Minerva McGonagall, the beloved character she brought to life in the Harry Potter franchise. From 2001 to 2011, Maggie Smith had a hand in all eight movies of the series and enchanted viewers around the world.
Her performance as Professor McGonagall was breathtaking, and it is remarkable to consider that during this time she was battling breast cancer. Despite this, her determination and drive continuously shone through on screen.
From potions class to awarding points for acts of bravery and loyalty, Professor McGonagall provided constant guidance for each Hogwarts generation.
Even after Hagrid’s release led to a prophecy to Harry Potter about his despising intertwined with that of Voldemort and the horrific events that were soon to unfold, it is McGonagall’s steady sense of wisdom portrayed through Maggie Smith’s performance that kept us all glued to our seats throughout these nine incredible years!
Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham – Downton Abbey (2010-2015, 2019)
Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, played by Maggie Smith in the long-running British drama series Downton Abbey is an unforgettable character that left audiences chuckling with her quick wit and sharp tongue.
Violet Crawley was a mainstay from 2010 up until 2015 when the show ended its highly successful run. But we got to see this beloved character grace the screen once more in 2019 when Downton Abbey released a feature film adaptation of their popular show.
Maggie Smith showed us just how timeless and ageless great comedic acting can be; she was 78 when she reprised her role as Violet Crawley in 2019! Her performance continues to shine among fans and reminds us why she remains one of Britain’s best actresses today.
