Sat Sep 28 03:03:54 UTC 2024: ## Dame Maggie Smith, Beloved Actress, Dies at 89

**London, UK** – Dame Maggie Smith, the legendary British actress known for her roles in films like “Harry Potter” and “Downton Abbey,” passed away peacefully in hospital on Friday morning at the age of 89. Tributes have poured in from fellow actors, royalty, and fans worldwide, acknowledging her immeasurable contributions to the world of entertainment.

“The word legend is overused, but if it applies to anyone in our industry, then it applies to her,” said Daniel Radcliffe, who co-starred with Dame Maggie in the “Harry Potter” films, remembering her fierce intellect and gloriously sharp tongue.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla expressed their deep sadness, calling her a “national treasure” and praising her warmth and wit. Hugh Bonneville, Dame Maggie’s on-screen son in “Downton Abbey,” described her as a “true legend of her generation,” while Whoopi Goldberg, her co-star in “Sister Act,” said she was “one-of-a-kind.”

Dame Maggie’s career spanned eight decades, beginning on stage in the 1950s and culminating with her last screen role in “The Miracle Club” just last year. Her iconic performances, including Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” series and Lady Violet Crawley in “Downton Abbey,” captivated audiences of all generations.

Beyond film, Dame Maggie was a renowned stage actress, earning critical acclaim and accolades for her performances in productions like “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie,” which won her an Oscar, and “Lettice and Lovage,” which earned her a Tony Award.

Miriam Margolyes, a fellow actress who worked with Dame Maggie on the “Harry Potter” series, described her as “the wizard,” praising her innate talent, intelligence, and hard work. “We’ve lost something irreplaceable,” Margolyes said.

The National Theatre, where Dame Maggie worked in its first season in 1963, released a statement calling her “one of the greatest actors this country has had the inestimable pleasure of witnessing.”

Dame Maggie Smith leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary talent and an undeniable presence on stage and screen. Her sharp wit, remarkable range, and enduring impact on the world of entertainment will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.

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