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Following the passing of Dame Maggie Smith at the age of 89 on September 27, tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, highlighting her immense talent and the impact she had on those who knew her and admired her work. Smith, a two-time Oscar winner, is best remembered for her iconic roles as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films and the Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey.
In a heartfelt statement shared with the BBC, her sons, Toby and Chris, described their mother as “an intensely private person” and confirmed that she was surrounded by loved ones at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital when she passed. They expressed gratitude for the support from the public and requested privacy during this difficult time.
Many stars took to social media to honor Smith’s legacy and extend their condolences:
Hugh Bonneville
Smith’s Downton Abbey co-star expressed his sympathies, stating, “Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit, and formidable talent. She was a true legend of her generation and thankfully will live on in so many magnificent screen performances.”
Viola Davis
On Instagram, Davis reflected on Smith’s influence, saying, “The end of an era… You created characters that clung to us, moved us, entertained us… You were greatness personified, Dame Maggie Smith. ‘A lady always knows when it’s time to leave.’ Godspeed.”
Rob Lowe
Lowe, who worked with Smith in Suddenly Last Summer, remembered her as both intimidating and delightful. He remarked, “She could eat anyone alive, and often did. But funny, and great company. We will never see another. Godspeed, Ms. Smith.”
Maren Morris
The singer shared her fond memories of Smith’s performances in films like The Secret Garden, Hook, and Sister Act, stating, “My childhood… Rest easy, Maggie Smith.”
Omid Djalili
The comedian succinctly tweeted, “We’ve lost one of the best today. RIP Maggie Smith.”
Whoopi Goldberg
Goldberg, who starred alongside Smith in Sister Act, shared her admiration: “Maggie Smith was a great woman and a brilliant actress… My heartfelt condolences go out to the family… RIP.”
Bonnie Wright
Wright, who played Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter series, expressed her sadness, calling Smith “our dearly loved and revered head of Gryffindor house.” She fondly recalled a scene they shared during the Yule Ball preparations.
Emma Watson
Watson shared a moving note, expressing her gratitude for having worked with Smith: “Maggie, there were a lot of male professors and by God, you held your own. Thank you for all of your kindness. I’ll miss you.”
Daniel Radcliffe
Radcliffe praised Smith’s intellect and wit, stating, “I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her… If the word legend applies to anyone, it would be Smith.”
Devon Murray
Murray, who played Seamus Finnigan, shared his mixed feelings about Smith’s intimidating presence and her warmth once you got to know her: “We’ve shared so many great moments together that I will treasure.”
King Charles III
The British monarch, along with Queen Camilla, issued a statement expressing their deep sadness at Smith’s passing: “As the curtain comes down on a national treasure, we join all those around the world in remembering her many great performances and her warmth that shone through both on and off stage.”
Dame Maggie Smith’s legacy as an actress and her contributions to film and theater will undoubtedly live on, remembered fondly by both colleagues and fans alike.