Beverley Cross was far more than simply the husband of Maggie Smith. He was a gifted playwright, screenwriter, and librettist whose imagination helped shape some of Britain’s most memorable stage works and classic fantasy films. Known for his intellect, emotional depth, and steady presence, Cross lived much of his life away from the glare of celebrity, yet his influence on British culture—and on Maggie Smith’s personal life—was profound.
This biography-style profile explores his life in full: from childhood and education to love, loss, career triumphs, and enduring legacy.
Quick Bio
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Beverley Cross |
| Date of Birth | April 13, 1931 |
| Age (as of 2026) | Would have been 95 |
| Birthplace | London, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Hair & Eye Colour | Dark brown hair, brown eyes |
| Education | University of Oxford |
| Profession | Playwright, screenwriter, librettist |
| Spouse | Maggie Smith (m. 1975–1998) |
| Children | None biologically; stepfather to Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens |
| Parents | Not widely documented |
| Net Worth (est.) | £2–4 million at time of death |
| Known For | Jason and the Argonauts, Clash of the Titans, Half a Sixpence |
Early Life & Education
Beverley Cross was born on April 13, 1931, in London, a city still marked by the aftershocks of the interwar period. Growing up during the Second World War, his childhood was shaped by rationing, air raids, and a heightened awareness of human fragility. Critics often cite these early experiences as a subtle influence on the emotional undertones of his later writing, where heroism frequently coexisted with vulnerability.
From an early age, Cross displayed a strong inclination towards literature and storytelling. He was known as a thoughtful and observant child, more drawn to books and theatre than to noisy social scenes. Teachers reportedly recognized his talent for language, and he excelled in English and history during his school years.
His academic promise led him to the University of Oxford, where he studied English. Oxford proved transformative. Immersed in classical literature, myth, and drama, Cross developed a deep fascination with epic storytelling, a passion that would later define his screenwriting career. He also became involved in student theatre, gaining firsthand experience of how words translated into performance. It was during this period that his path would eventually cross with a young drama student named Maggie Smith.
Personal and Family Life
Beverley Cross’s personal life was marked by patience, emotional maturity, and timing that seemed almost novelistic. He first met Maggie Smith in 1952, when she was just beginning her acting career. Cross was immediately captivated by her intelligence and sharp wit. However, at the time, he was married to his first wife, and nothing romantic developed.
Despite this, Cross remained a supportive figure in Smith’s early career. He famously encouraged her to audition for the National Theatre, a decision that changed her life. There, she met actor Robert Stephens, whom she married in 1967. That marriage produced two sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, but it ultimately ended in divorce.
Years later, after Cross’s own first marriage had dissolved, fate reunited him with Maggie Smith. Their relationship deepened quietly, built on mutual respect rather than theatrical drama. They married on June 23, 1975, at the Guildford Register Office.
As a husband, Cross was described by friends as steady, grounded, and deeply loyal. He embraced his role as stepfather to Smith’s sons, offering emotional support without overshadowing their biological father. Maggie Smith later described him as her “rock,” a phrase that came to define how the public understood their marriage.
Career Journey
Beverley Cross’s career was one of steady creative evolution rather than sudden stardom. His earliest professional successes came in theatre, where his sharp dialogue and understanding of character quickly earned him respect. His play Strip the Willow, starring Maggie Smith, showcased his ability to write strong, complex roles for women at a time when such parts were still relatively rare.
His greatest theatrical success arrived with Half a Sixpence, a musical adaptation of H.G. Wells’s Kipps. The production was a hit in London’s West End and later on Broadway, cementing Cross’s reputation as a writer who could blend humour, romance, and social commentary.
Cross’s transition into film proved equally successful. He had a particular gift for adapting myths and historical epics for the screen. His screenplay for Jason and the Argonauts became iconic, celebrated for its balance of classical storytelling and cinematic spectacle. This was followed by The Long Ships in 1964 and later Clash of the Titans, which introduced ancient mythology to a new generation.
In addition to theatre and film, Cross wrote opera librettos, collaborating with composers such as Richard Rodney Bennett and Nicholas Maw. These works further demonstrated his versatility and deep respect for classical forms.
Life Challenges & Turning Points
Although Cross enjoyed professional success, his life was not without challenges. His first marriage ended quietly, a personal disappointment that coincided with a period of professional uncertainty. Additionally, living alongside Maggie Smith’s rising fame sometimes placed him in the public eye in ways he did not actively seek.
Perhaps the most significant turning point came when he chose emotional stability over ambition. Friends have noted that Cross consciously chose fewer projects later in life, preferring quality over quantity and valuing time spent with Smith above all else.
His sudden death from an aneurysm on March 20, 1998, at the age of 66, was a devastating blow to those close to him. For Maggie Smith, the loss was life-altering.
Current Life & Career
Beverley Cross is no longer living, but his work continues to be rediscovered and appreciated. His films are frequently rebroadcast, and Clash of the Titans remains a cult classic. Maggie Smith never remarried after his death, later stating that life without him felt “a bit pointless,” a rare and deeply personal admission.
Net Worth & Financial Status
At the time of his death, Beverley Cross’s estimated net worth was between £2 and £4 million. His income derived primarily from theatre royalties, film screenwriting fees, and long-term residuals from his most successful works. He lived comfortably but modestly, favouring privacy over luxury.
Public Image & Media Presence
Unlike many creatives of his era, Cross avoided the spotlight. He was rarely seen giving interviews and had no interest in celebrity culture. Those who knew him described him as warm, witty, and quietly confident. In the media, he is often portrayed as the calm counterbalance to Maggie Smith’s public brilliance.
Fun Facts & Anecdotes
Beverley Cross had a lifelong fascination with mythology and reportedly kept multiple translations of Greek myths at home. He also enjoyed gardening and found it relaxing after long writing sessions. Friends recall that he preferred walking holidays to glamorous destinations and had a dry, understated sense of humour that closely matched Maggie Smith’s own.
Conclusion
Beverley Cross’s life was defined by creativity, emotional intelligence, and a deep belief in the power of storytelling. While history often remembers him as Maggie Smith’s husband, his legacy stands firmly on its own. Through plays, films, and operas, he left behind a body of work that continues to inspire. His marriage to Maggie Smith remains one of the great love stories of British theatre—a reminder that sometimes the most enduring partnerships are built quietly, over time.
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(FAQs)
Who was Beverley Cross?
Beverley Cross was an English playwright and screenwriter best known for classic films such as Jason and the Argonauts and Clash of the Titans.
When did Beverley Cross marry Maggie Smith?
He married Maggie Smith on June 23, 1975.
Did Beverley Cross have children?
He had no biological children but was a devoted stepfather to Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens.
What was Beverley Cross’s profession?
He was a playwright, screenwriter, and opera librettist.
What was Beverley Cross’s net worth?
His estimated net worth at the time of his death was between £2 and £4 million.