No one will be able to forget the ‘Harry Potter’ star Maggie Smithas she etched a mark in everyone’s heart with her work. The news of her demise on Friday, September 27, has left a huge void in Hollywood. Celebrities shared their tribute to the actress, known for playing a memorable role in the films ‘The Secret Garden’, ‘Nanny Macphee Returns’, and many more.Now her ‘Harry Potter’ cast including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watsonand others paid farewell to their professor Minerva McGonagall.
In a statement to US Weekly, Daniel Radcliffe said,“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 ‘Harry Potter’ actor further said that the only thing he knew was that she was a Dame and the first thing he asked her was, “Would you like me to call you Dame?,” to which Maggie laughed and said, “Don’t be ridiculous.” Daniel further shared his experience of being nervous to meet Maggie and the actress put him at ease. He also added that she had a charm and he found himself lucky to act with such a veteran actress.
Emma Watson shared an Instagram story that read, “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-honoring. 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.”
The ‘Sirius Black’ actor Gary Oldman said in a statement to Entertainment Weekly that Maggie is one of the true Geats along with Oliver and Gielgud. He also said that those who saw her talent on stage would never forget her.
Actress Bonnie Wright penned an Instagram note that read, “Our dearly loved and revered head of Gryffindor house. You will be so missed by the Harry Potter community. My favorite 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.”
Actress Afshan Azad (Padma Patil) shared an Instagram note that read, “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.”
Chris Rankin penned, “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.” While Devon Murray wrote, “I’m 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.”
RIP Maggie Smith! Legendary British Actor Passes Away At 89