Dame Maggie Smith, celebrated for her iconic roles in the *Harry Potter* films and *Downton Abbey*, has been remembered as "a true legend" following her death at 89.
Tributes poured in from the King, Prime Minister, and numerous co-stars. King Charles called her "a national treasure," while Sir Keir Starmer highlighted her beloved status for her immense talent. Daniel Radcliffe, her *Harry Potter* co-star, recalled her "fierce intellect" and "gloriously sharp tongue."
Miriam Margolyes praised Smith as "the best of the best," combining "ferocity, mischief, delight, and tenderness." Margolyes also admired her courage and kindness, saying, "I've been in awe of her, as all her colleagues are."
Smith’s career, spanning eight decades, was marked by her sharp wit both on and off screen. In *Harry Potter*, she embodied Professor Minerva McGonagall, famous for her strict demeanor and pointed witch's hat. Radcliffe expressed his gratitude for working with her, calling her "extremely funny" and a true legend.
Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, reflected on realizing as an adult the honor of sharing the screen with "a true definition of greatness." Watson described Smith as "real, honest, funny, and self-honoring."
In *Downton Abbey*, Smith portrayed Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, known for her cutting one-liners. Hugh Bonneville, who played the Earl of Grantham, praised her "formidable talent," while Michelle Dockery, her on-screen granddaughter, called her "a maverick" who will be deeply missed.
Throughout her career, Smith won two Oscars, for *The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie* (1970) and *California Suite* (1979), along with seven BAFTA Awards. The National Theatre praised her "deep intelligence, sublime craft, and sharp wit."
Smith’s family, in a statement, announced her peaceful passing in hospital, thanking staff for their care. Her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin described her as "an intensely private person" and expressed their devastation at the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.
As the curtain falls on a career that illuminated the stage and screen for decades, Dame Maggie Smith leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations.
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