Maggie Smith death: With the news of Dame Maggie Smith’s demise at the age of 89 hitting the headlines, tributes have started pouring in for the supremely talented actress who had won two Oscars in her lifetime.
Best known for playing the roles such as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter movies and Dowager Countess in the hit TV series ‘Downton Abbey’, Smith was among the select few who achieved the remarkable feat of winning an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony during seven decades in both theater and film.
In 1990, Smith was honored with a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth, earning the title of Dame.
Remembering Smith, Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe took to Twitter, now X, to say her death was “truly heartbreaking”. “She was one of the most talented women to ever live. She left an amazing legacy and she’ll always be remembered.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said 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,” he said.
Emma Watson, who played the role of Hermione Granger, wrote on her Instagram Stories, “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 further remembered Smith as “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,” she wrote.
Garry Oldman, who played Sirius Black, shared a statement Entertainment Weekly praising the late actress. “Maggie Smith, one of the true Greats along with [Laurence] Olivier and [John] Gielgud…those who saw her dazzling talent on the stage say they can never forget her…Her magnificent film performances remain for all to see and enjoy. Such an artist comes along about every other generation. If one is lucky,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bonnie Wright, who portrayed Ginny Weasley, wrote on Instagram, “Our dearly loved and revered head of Gryffindor house…You will be so missed by the Harry Potter community. My favourite scene with Maggie was when we were all learning to dance for the Yule Ball. She embodied that perfect balance of sass and loving care that McGonagall has. She kept Gryffindors on their toes. My deepest condolences to Maggie’s family at this time.”