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Emma Watson is mourning the loss of her Harry Potter co-star, Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away on September 27 at the age of 89. Watson took to Instagram to express her grief and pay tribute to the legendary actress, reflecting on their shared experiences during the filming of all eight Harry Potter movies.
“When I was younger, I had no idea of Maggie’s legend — the woman I was fortunate enough to share space with. It is only as I’ve become an adult that I’ve come to appreciate that I shared the screen with a true definition of greatness,” Watson wrote. She praised Smith’s authenticity, humor, and strength, acknowledging her remarkable ability to hold her own in a male-dominated environment. “Thank you for all your kindness. I’ll miss you,” Watson concluded her heartfelt message.
According to a statement from Smith’s sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, the actress passed away peacefully at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, surrounded by family and friends. She is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren, who are grieving the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.
Born in 1934, Smith began her acting career at a young age in Oxford, eventually making her way to the big screen. Her breakthrough role came in the 1958 film Nowhere to Go, earning her a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Over her illustrious career, she won eight BAFTAs, including a BAFTA Fellowship, the highest honor the Academy can bestow. Smith was also a two-time Oscar winner, receiving Best Actress for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and Best Supporting Actress for California Suite.
In addition to her work in films, Smith became beloved for her role as the Countess of Grantham in the acclaimed series Downton Abbey.
King Charles and Queen Camilla joined others in paying tribute to Smith, noting, “As the curtain comes down on a national treasure, we join all those around the world in remembering, with the fondest admiration and affection, her many great performances, and her warmth and wit that shone through both off and on the stage.”
Dame Maggie Smith was married twice, first to actor Robert Stephens from 1967 to 1975, and later to playwright Beverley Cross until his death in 1988. Her legacy as a talented and beloved actress will continue to resonate with fans and colleagues alike.