Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away on September 27, 2024, was an iconic figure in the entertainment world, best known for her memorable roles in “Harry Potter” and “Downton Abbey.” Her influence, however, extended beyond the screen, as she raised two
successful sons, both of whom have left their marks in the acting world: Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens. Though they come from a distinguished lineage, Chris and Toby have made careers for themselves independently, showcasing their individual talents and determination. Let’s take a closer look at the lives and careers of Maggie Smith’s sons.
Chris Larkin: Crafting His Own Path in Hollywood
Early Life and Name Change
Born on June 19, 1967, Chris Larkin, originally named Christopher Larkin Stephens, is Maggie Smith’s eldest son with her former husband, Robert Stephens. Unlike many children of famous actors, Chris chose to distance himself professionally from his renowned
parents by adopting a different last name. The decision wasn’t merely cosmetic; it was a way to forge his own path in the entertainment industry. As Chris once explained, his father urged him to use the family name for recognition, but Chris wanted to succeed on his own terms. “I wouldn’t have been able to live with myself if I had gone back on it,” he said in an interview.
Career Highlights
Although Chris was initially unsure about pursuing acting, he eventually enrolled in the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA) at the age of 22, a relatively late start compared to his peers. His career flourished after his graduation in 1992, and he has since appeared in numerous productions on stage and screen.
Chris is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Richard Brown in Outlander, as well as notable roles in Valkyrie (2008) and Official Secrets (2019). His performances have been lauded for their depth and subtlety, a testament to his dedication to his craft. Despite his parents’ illustrious careers, Chris has managed to step out of their shadows and establish himself as a versatile and respected actor in his own right.
Personal Life
Chris Larkin currently resides in London with his wife, Victoria “Suki” Steadman, whom he married in 2005. The couple shares two children, and Chris maintains a relatively private life outside of his work, preferring to let his performances speak for themselves.
Toby Stephens: The Bond Villain and Netflix Star
A Different Journey into Acting
Toby Stephens, born on April 21, 1969, followed a slightly different route than his brother. Like Chris, he is the son of Maggie Smith and Robert Stephens, but Toby embraced the acting world with open arms early on. However, despite growing up in a family steeped in the arts, he insists that his parents didn’t push him into the profession. In fact, they wanted him to be sure it was the right path for him.
Toby’s education took him to Seaford College, which he described as “fairly second rate,” certainly not one of the elite schools like Eton, which may surprise those who assume he came from a background of privilege. He later graduated from LAMDA, like his brother, in 1991, and quickly dove into acting full-time.
Major Roles in Film and TV
Toby’s career took off almost immediately after his formal training, with his first significant role coming in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Coriolanus in 1994. But it was his portrayal of Gustav Graves, the villain in the James Bond film Die Another Day (2002), that put him firmly in the spotlight. Toby became the youngest actor to play a Bond villain, a role that propelled him to international fame.
More recently, Toby starred as John Robinson in the Netflix series Lost In Space, a role that further solidified his reputation as a versatile actor capable of leading major productions. His ability to portray both villainous and heroic characters speaks to his range, and his performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Family Life and Collaborations
In 2001, Toby married fellow actor Anna-Louise Plowman. The couple has three children—Eli Alistair, Tallulah, and Kura—and even worked together on stage in a production of Private Lives in 2013. While Toby has said that working with his wife was a risk, he ultimately described it as a rewarding experience that brought them closer together.
Maggie Smith’s Influence on Her Sons
Though Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens have both found success in acting, they credit their mother for shaping their professional and personal lives. Maggie Smith was a larger-than-life figure, not just as an actress but as a mother who instilled a strong work ethic and sense of independence in her children.
In interviews, both Chris and Toby have expressed their gratitude for the way their parents approached their careers. While some famous actors may push their children into the same profession, Smith and Stephens allowed their sons to find their own way, a decision that both Chris and Toby have said helped them in their careers.
The Loss of a Legend
On September 27, 2024, the world lost Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away peacefully in a hospital. Chris and Toby released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and the devastation felt by their family. “She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother,” they shared.
While Maggie Smith’s absence is deeply felt by her family, her legacy lives on through her sons’ continued success in the world of acting. Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, though initially wary of following in their parents’ footsteps, have each carved out impressive careers, standing as testaments to the enduring influence of their talented mother.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who are Maggie Smith’s sons?
Maggie Smith had two sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, both of whom are successful actors.
2. Why did Chris Larkin change his name?
Chris Larkin changed his name from Christopher Stephens to separate his work from his famous parents and to forge his own path in the acting industry.
3. What are Toby Stephens’ most notable roles?
Toby Stephens is well-known for his role as Gustav Graves in Die Another Day and John Robinson in Netflix’s Lost In Space.
4. Did Maggie Smith encourage her sons to act?
No, both Chris and Toby have mentioned in interviews that their parents did not push them into acting. In fact, they were careful to ensure it was something their sons truly wanted to pursue.
5. How did Maggie Smith’s death impact her sons?
Chris and Toby were devastated by their mother’s passing. They shared a statement expressing their grief and describing their mother as an extraordinary figure in their lives.