Multiple castmates from Harry Potter have paid tribute to Maggie Smith, following news that the iconic actress sadly passed away at the age of 89.
Smith — known for her role as Professor McGonagall in the fantasy films as well as her stint on Downton Abbey — passed away peacefully in her sleep while in hospital, according to an announcement shared by her two sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, on Saturday.
While tragic, the news has offered a silver lining in the form of a spontaneous Hogwarts reunion, with multiple Harry Potter castmates, including main trio Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson, sharing statements about their beloved former co-star in the days since her passing.
As you can imagine, it’s pretty sad stuff, but there’s just something in my eye I swear.
“She was a fierce intellect, had a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny”, Radcliff — who portrayed the title character in all Harry Potter films — said in a press statement.
“I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her, and to spend time around her on set”, Radcliffe added.
“The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her. Thank you Maggie.”
For her part, Watson — who portrayed the young witch (and loveable teacher’s pet) Hermione Granger — described Smith as the “true definition of greatness” in a social media tribute, remembering her co-star for always being “real, honest, funny and self-honouring”.
Grint, meanwhile, wrote that he was “heartbroken” to learn of Smith’s passing, and shared an image of himself arm-in-arm with the actress on the set of Harry Potter. “I feel incredibly lucky to have shared a set with her and particularly lucky to have shared a dance”, the Ron Weasley actor wrote (there’s simply not enough tissues).
Fellow Harry Potter star Miriam Margolyes — who rivals Smith in terms of sheer legendaryness — said the late Dame was “the best of the best”, and remembered her for combining “ferocity, a glint of mischief, delight and tenderness”. I wish I could expelliarmus these tears away.
King Charles and Keir Starmer were also among those who paid tribute to Smith, with the UK prime minister saying the actress was “beloved by so many for her great talent”.
Ok, fine, I’ll embark upon my eleven hundredth rewatch of Harry Potter, with a keen eye on the scene-stealing Ms. McGonagall. We’ll miss you, Maggie!
Lead image: Warner Bros. Pictures