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Daniel Radcliffe has paid tribute to his late Harry Potter co-star, Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away at the age of 89 on September 27. The veteran actress died peacefully in the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, surrounded by family and friends. Her sons announced the heartbreaking news, expressing gratitude to the hospital staff for their kindness during her final days and requesting privacy for the family.
Radcliffe, who portrayed Harry Potter in the film series, shared his memories of working with Smith, particularly noting her “fierce intellect” and sharp wit. He reminisced about meeting her for the first time when he was just nine years old, recalling how his parents were in awe of the actress, known for her role as Professor McGonagall.
In his heartfelt statement, Radcliffe described his initial encounter with Smith, mentioning that he humorously asked if he should call her “Dame.” She laughed it off, which helped ease his nerves. “She was incredibly kind to me on that shoot, and then I was lucky enough to go on working with her for another 10 years on the Harry Potter films,” he wrote.
He praised Smith’s remarkable ability to charm and intimidate simultaneously, highlighting her humor and intellect. “She was a fierce intellect, a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant, and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny,” Radcliffe added.
Dame Maggie Smith’s contributions to the arts, from her iconic performances in the Harry Potter series to her work in Sister Act and Downton Abbey, have left a lasting legacy, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.