Dame Maggie Smith, celebrated for her performances in the Harry Potter series and Downton Abbey, has been honored as “a true legend” of both stage and screen after her passing at the age of 89. Tributes have poured in from the King, the Prime Minister, and numerous colleagues from her extensive career. King Charles praised her as “a national treasure,” while Sir Keir Starmer highlighted her talent that endeared her to many. Daniel Radcliffe, who starred in the Harry Potter films, recalled her “fierce intellect” and “gloriously sharp tongue.”
Miriam Margolyes, a fellow actress, lauded Dame Maggie for deserving every accolade she earned throughout her impressive career. Known for her wit both on and off-screen, Dame Maggie portrayed the formidable Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter franchise, famous for her distinctive pointed hat and stern demeanor. Radcliffe stated, “She could intimidate and charm in the same instant and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny. I will always consider myself incredibly lucky to have worked with her.” Emma Watson expressed her realization of sharing the screen with “a true definition of greatness” only later in life, reminiscing about Dame Maggie’s authenticity and humor.
In the acclaimed ITV series Downton Abbey, she portrayed Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, known for her cutting one-liners. Dame Maggie won two Academy Awards for her roles in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and California Suite and garnered several nominations and Bafta awards during her career. In a statement, the King and Queen remarked on her many performances and the warmth and wit that distinguished her both on and off the stage. The Prime Minister acknowledged her legacy, stating her work would be cherished for generations.
Hugh Bonneville, who acted alongside her in Downton Abbey, remarked on her sharpness and remarkable talent. Dame Maggie reprised her role in the two Downton Abbey movies, with her character meeting her end in the 2022 sequel. Co-stars recognized her exceptional range in both comedy and drama. Michelle Dockery, who played her on-screen granddaughter, expressed gratitude for knowing such a unique and remarkable person.
Sir Paul McCartney fondly remembered Dame Maggie’s irreverent and fun-loving personality, while Dame Kristin Scott-Thomas, who worked on Gosford Park with her, praised her acting skills and humor. She described Dame Maggie as someone who took her craft seriously but also despised pretense. Actor Simon Callow acknowledged her brilliance as a comedienne and her profound insight into character development, celebrating the miraculous opportunity to work with her.
Dame Maggie’s passing was announced by her sons, who shared that she had died peacefully in the hospital surrounded by family. They requested privacy during this difficult time, expressing their gratitude to the staff who cared for her in her final days. Beginning her career in the 1950s, Dame Maggie received her first Oscar nomination for portraying Desdemona in Othello and continued to leave a lasting impact on cinema and theatre throughout her life.