Dame Maggie Smith, the beloved British actress best known for her iconic roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, has sadly passed away at the age of 89. The legendary star “passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September,” according to a statement from her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, shared with the BBC.
“Maggie was an intensely private person, and she was surrounded by friends and family at the end,” the statement read. “She leaves behind two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
In addition to their personal grief, Maggie’s sons took a moment to express their gratitude. “We would like to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days,” Toby and Chris added. “We also thank you for your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”
Maggie Smith’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned over seven decades, including more than 50 films and numerous accolades. Her extraordinary talent earned her two Academy Awards—one in 1969 for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and another in 1978 for California Suite. These accomplishments are only a small part of her enduring legacy.
Many will fondly remember Maggie for her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series, where she charmed audiences with her stern yet deeply caring portrayal of the Hogwarts professor. She was also adored for her sharp wit and timeless elegance as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in Downton Abbey. Both roles solidified her place as one of the most cherished figures in British television and film.
As news of her death spread, tributes poured in from former co-stars, particularly from those who worked with her on the Harry Potter films. Several cast members took to social media to honour her memory, praising her kindness, talent, and the profound impact she had on their lives and careers.
Daniel Radcliffe
“The first time I met Maggie Smith I was 9 years old and we were reading through scenes for David Copperfield, which was my first job. I knew virtually nothing about her other than that my parents were awestruck at the fact that I would be working with her. The other thing I knew about her was that she was a Dame, so 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.’ I remember feeling nervous to meet her and then her putting me immediately at ease. 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.
She was a fierce intellect, a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny.
I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her, and to spend time around her on set. The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her. Thank you Maggie.”
Daniel played a young David Copperfield in the BBC adaptation of Charles Dickens‘ novel of the same name, which also starred Maggie. It premiered in 1999.
Emma Watson
“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.”
Rupert Grint
“Heartbroken to hear about Maggie. She was so special, always hilarious and always kind. I feel incredibly lucky to have shared a set with her and particularly lucky to have shared a dance. I’ll miss you Maggie. Sending all my love to her family.”
Tom Felton
“Deeply saddened to wake up to the news of Maggie’s passing. There quite simply was no one like her. Thank you for looking after us from literally day one. Thank you for not getting me kicked off the set when I couldn’t stop giggling during your transfiguration class. Thank you for showing us the way. Raise your wands x.”
Bonnie Wright
“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.”
Gary Oldman
“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.”
Devon Murray
“Im saddened to hear of the passing of the ‘Lady’ that is Maggie Smith. Maggie was the most intimidating person I’ve ever met but once cracked she was the kindest, most caring and loving Lady I’ve ever met.”
Afshan Azad
“Legend. Icon. An absolute honor to have shared the same room as you let alone screen. There’ll be no other. Thoughts and love go to all her friends and family and all the Potter family. 🕊️ RIP.”
James Phelps
“Very sad to hear the news today. It was an honour to have been on the same sets as Dame Maggie Smith. On HP, she was always welcoming, funny and also showed how to act not just on set, but off too. My thoughts are with her family at this sad time.”
Anna Shaffer
“Cannot believe I got to [breathe] the same air. What a truly astonishing woman, a truly astonishing actor.”
Chris Rankin
“There’s not many people in the world who were as brilliantly talented, waspishly sharp tongued, funny, kind or intimidating as Maggie Smith. I am truly lucky to have shared a film set with her. They don’t make them like that anymore.”
Our thoughts are with Maggie Smith‘s loved ones.
