Saturday, 28 September 2024
Saturday, 28 September 2024
Maggie Smith, one of the most revered figures in theatre and cinema, has left behind a legacy few can rival. Her extraordinary body of work spanned over six decades, captivating audiences with her sharp wit, towering presence, and emotional depth. Whether it was as Professor McGonagall in Harry Potter or the Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey, Smith’s roles became cultural touchstones, and her passing at the age of 89 on September 27 has led to a flood of tributes from fans and fellow actors alike.
Daniel Radcliffe
For Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe, working with Maggie Smith was a pivotal experience that left a lasting impression. "The first time I met Maggie Smith I was 9 years old. The first thing I asked her when we met was 'Would you like me to call you Dame?' at which she laughed and said something to the effect of 'Don't be ridiculous!' 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. The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her. Thank you, Maggie," Radcliffe said.
J K Rowling
Harry Potter author J K Rowling posted on X, "Somehow I thought she'd live forever. RIP Dame Maggie Smith."
King Charles III
The impact of Smith’s career was felt not just in the world of entertainment but across the nation. King Charles III paid tribute, stating: “My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dame Maggie Smith. As the curtain comes down on a national treasure, we can join all those around the world in remembering with fondest admiration and affection her many great performances and her warmth and wit that shone through both on stage and off.”
Emma Watson
Harry Potter star Emma Watson, shared a photo with Smith on her Instagram story. “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. She was real, honest, funny and self-honouring. 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,” Watson wrote.
Helen Mirren
Reflecting on Smith’s immense contribution to the arts, fellow British acting legend Helen Mirren expressed her sorrow. "It's a very sad day for the whole culture of theatre and cinema in England. … She was one of the greatest actresses of the past century, without a doubt," Mirren said.
Keir Starmer
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also marked Smith’s passing, recognising her invaluable contributions to the arts. "Dame Maggie Smith introduced us to new worlds with the countless stories she acted over her long career. She was beloved by so many for her great talent, becoming a true national treasure whose work will be cherished for generations to come. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones. May she rest in peace, Starmer said.
Hugh Bonneville
Hugh Bonneville, who shared the screen with Smith in Downton Abbey, spoke fondly of her immense talent. “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. My condolences to her boys and wider family," Bonneville said.
James Ivory
Director James Ivory, who worked with Smith on films like Quartet and A Room with a View, reflected on her unmatched wit. "Maggie Smith was the wittiest woman I ever met in my life. Some of the very funny things she said you would not be able to print. I regret she wasn't in more of my films."
Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg, who acted alongside Smith in Sister Act, shared her thoughts via Instagram: “Maggie Smith was a great woman and a brilliant actress. I still can't believe I was lucky enough to work with the one-of-a-kind. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family…RIP."
Saoirse Ronan
Saoirse Ronan, one of the most celebrated young actors of her generation, reflected on the uniqueness of Smith. "She's given so much to the world. There's never been anyone like Maggie. There's never been anyone who followed the beat of her own drum as much as she has done, as a person and an actor," Ronan said.
Rob Lowe
Actor Rob Lowe, known for his roles in Parks and Recreation and The West Wing, described working with Smith as an unforgettable experience. "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," Lowe said.
Julian Fellowes
Downton Abbey creator and writer Julian Fellowes also shared his thoughts, lauding Smith’s brilliance on screen. "Maggie Smith was a truly great actress and we were more than fortunate to be part of the last act in her stellar career. She was a joy to write for, subtle, many-layered, intelligent, funny, and heart-breaking. Working with her has been the greatest privilege of my career, and I will never forget her," Fellowes said.
