Daniel Radcliffe paid a heartfelt tribute to his Harry Potter co-star Maggie Smith following her passing, calling her a “fierce intellect” who could “intimidate and charm in the same instant.” Radcliffe, captivated by Smith from their first meeting, shared an anecdote from their time on the set of the 1999 BBC drama David Copperfield. At the time, Radcliffe was just 9 years old and admitted to knowing little about her, apart from his parents’ awe. “The other thing I knew was that she was a Dame, so I asked her if I should call her Dame,” Radcliffe, now 35, told E! News. “She laughed and said ‘don’t be ridiculous!’ Her disarming charm immediately put me at ease despite my initial nervousness.”
Radcliffe reflected on his fortunate experience of working with Smith for another decade on the Harry Potter films, wherein she portrayed Professor McGonagall. He praised her as a “fierce intellect” with a sharp wit and an enchanting presence. He added, “The word legend is overused, but if it applies to anyone in our industry, it applies to her.”
Smith’s passing resonated with many of her co-stars, including the Downton Abbey cast. Hugh Bonneville, who played her son, remarked on her sharp eye and formidable talent. Michelle Dockery, her on-screen granddaughter, called her a “maverick” and expressed immense gratitude for knowing her. Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, shared on Instagram that she only realized Smith’s legendary status as she grew older, calling her late co-star “real, honest, funny, and self-honoring.”
James Phelps, who portrayed Fred Weasley, recalled the honor of working with Smith, highlighting her welcoming and humorous nature. Meanwhile, Kristin Scott Thomas described her as an inspiration with a keen sense of humor and an aversion to nonsense. Sandra Bullock cherished their time together during the filming of Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, reflecting on Smith’s stories and advice.
In additional tributes, Rob Lowe, Whoopi Goldberg, Julian Fellowes, and Keir Starmer all celebrated Smith’s remarkable talent and irreplaceable presence. Fellowes, the creator of Downton Abbey, emphasized the privilege of working with Smith, calling her subtle, intelligent, funny, and heart-breaking.
Many in the industry echo this sentiment, recognizing Maggie Smith as a true national treasure and a legend whose work will be cherished for generations.