Dame Maggie Smith, celebrated for her roles in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey, is being remembered as “a true legend” of stage and screen following her passing at the age of 89. Tributes have poured in from the King, the Prime Minister, and many co-stars throughout her extensive career. King Charles described her as “a national treasure,” while Sir Keir Starmer noted her as “beloved by many for her immense talent.”
Daniel Radcliffe, who starred in Harry Potter, fondly recalled her “sharp intellect” and “gloriously cutting wit.” Miriam Margolyes praised her as “the best of the best,” highlighting her combination of “fierceness, a mischievous glint, joy, and tenderness.” Dame Maggie was known for her sharp humor both on and off screen throughout an impressive career that spanned eight decades. CONTINUE BELOW
In the Harry Potter series, she portrayed the stern and witty Professor Minerva McGonagall, famous for her pointed witch’s hat and strict demeanor toward Hogwarts students. Radcliffe reflected, “She had a fierce intellect, a gloriously sharp tongue, and could intimidate and charm simultaneously. I consider myself incredibly lucky to have worked with her and to have spent time with her on set.”
Emma Watson, who played Hermione, expressed in an Instagram post that she didn’t fully appreciate the greatness of working alongside Dame Maggie until later in life. She described her as “real, honest, funny, and self-honoring.” The National Theatre honored her for her “deep intelligence, sublime craft, and sharp wit.” CONTINUE BELOW
Throughout her illustrious career, Dame Maggie won two Oscars—for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1970 and California Suite in 1979—and received four additional nominations.
In a joint statement, the King and Queen described her as a “national treasure,” saying, “As the curtain falls on such a talent, we join the world in fondly remembering her many unforgettable performances.” Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed this sentiment, stating that Dame Maggie “introduced us to new worlds through her many stories, and her work will be cherished for generations.” CONTINUE BELOW
