Harry Potter, Downton Abbey Stars & More Pay Tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

Harry Potter, Downton Abbey Stars & More Pay Tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

As a movie buff with a penchant for British cinema, I must admit that the passing of Dame Maggie Smith has left a profound void, not just in the world of entertainment but in my heart as well. Having grown up watching her mesmerizing performances, it’s difficult to fathom a cinematic landscape without her indelible presence.


Dame Maggie Smith’s passing resonated deeply in numerous lives, touching not only her devoted fans but also her esteemed colleagues from across a remarkable career in the entertainment world. Consequently, it comes as no surprise that many celebrities joined the public in honoring the actress’ life and expressing their sorrow over the loss she leaves behind.

Being a part of the Harry Potter series led to numerous accolades for the actress, as people often highlighted her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the magical series. The Wizarding World even offered their own heartfelt tribute, acknowledging that her death occurred exactly one year after Michael Gambon, who played Dumbledore, passed away.

Actor Daniel Radcliffe shared his sadness in a statement reported by the BBC, saying:

The first occasion I encountered Maggie Smith was when I was nine; we were rehearsing for David Copperfield, my debut project. Apart from knowing that my parents were in awe of working with her, I barely knew anything about her. I also recognized she was a Dame, so when we finally crossed paths, I jokingly asked if I should address her as ‘Dame.’ This amused her, and she responded humorously, “Oh, don’t be preposterous!

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have collaborated with her and spent time near her on set. In our industry, there are few who truly deserve the title of ‘legend,’ but she is certainly one of them. A big thank you, Maggie!

Stars of Downton Abbey Remember Maggie Smith

Harry Potter, Downton Abbey Stars & More Pay Tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

Alongside memories from her fellow actors, she was associated not just with, but became iconic for her portrayal of the Dowager Countess of Grantham in the hit British period drama. Having graced both big and small screens through this popular series, the sorrow felt by many was evident once more in the heartfelt tributes paid to her. A co-star who acted alongside Dame Maggie Smith in the ITV production, fondly recalled her as a “true legend of her era.” Reflecting on their shared scenes, he expressed to the BBC that she possessed a keen eye, quick wit, and an impressive acting talent.

Among those honoring Downton’s stars, Michelle Dockery, portraying Lady Mary Crawley, expressed that “There was no other quite like Maggie.

I’m incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with such an extraordinary individual. Her absence will be profoundly felt, and my sympathies are extended to her loved ones. Meanwhile, Lesley Nicol expressed, “For 14 years, we were like a family from Downton. We’re all heartbroken knowing she’s gone. She didn’t seek fear or admiration; she simply wanted to be part of the group.

Julian Fellowes, the mind behind ‘Downton Abbey’, expressed his thoughts to Variety magazine: “Maggie Smith was an exceptional actress, and we were fortunate indeed to be a part of the final chapter in her remarkable career. Writing for her was a delight, as she brought subtlety, depth, intelligence, humor, and poignancy to every scene. Working alongside her has been the pinnacle of my professional journey, and I will forever cherish our time together.

Whoopi Goldberg, King Charles III & More Remember Maggie Smith

Harry Potter, Downton Abbey Stars & More Pay Tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

Of course, Maggie Smith was much more than just the sum of her two franchise roles. As a winner of multiple Oscars, Emmys, BAFTAs, Tonys and more, her career was exemplary and a constant inspiration to others entering the industry and working with her. Among the many others sharing tributes was West Wing star Rob Lowe, who wrote, “Saddened to hear Dame Maggie Smith has passed. I had the unforgettable experience of working with her; sharing a two-shot was like being paired with a lion. She could eat anyone alive, and often did. But funny, and great company. And suffered no fools. We will never see another.”

Actress Whoopi Goldberg, who shared the screen with Smith in the Sister Act films and deeply wished for a third collaboration, paid tribute on Instagram. She expressed her sentiments as follows: “Maggie Smith was an exceptional woman and a talented actress beyond compare. I find it hard to believe that I had the privilege of working with such a unique individual. My sincere condolences extend to her family…Rest In Peace.

In a similar vein, it is only a particular kind of national treasure that receives a heartfelt message of condolence from a monarch, and Maggie Smith undeniably fit that description. As such, among the numerous online tributes, a message came from King Charles III, expressing his own remembrance for one of the industry’s legends. Some of the other touching tributes dedicated to Maggie Smith can be found below.

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2024-09-27 21:32