‘The End Of An Era’: Viola Davis, Whoopi Goldberg, Rob Lowe And More Stars Remember Dame Maggie Smith

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As a dedicated follower of the arts, I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dame Maggie Smith. Her talent and presence were undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on generations of fans. Having grown up with her performances in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, I feel a personal connection to her work, and it is heartbreaking to see such a brilliant artist depart from our screens.

Stars are expressing their respects after the death of Dame Maggie Smith at 89 years old on September 27th. Known for her two Academy Awards, she was famously recognized for her portrayal as Professor Minerva McGonagall in all Harry Potter movies, and as the Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey.

Speaking about Smith as a very private individual, Toby and Chris, who are Smith’s sons, shared the sad news of her passing with BBC. In a statement, they mentioned that she was surrounded by loved ones when she passed away at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. The brothers also requested in advance for people to respect their privacy during this challenging period, while expressing gratitude for any thoughtful messages sent their way.

Following Smith’s passing, several stars expressed their tribute on their individual social media platforms, honoring Smith’s legacy and offering condolences to the family. Additionally, some of these individuals made statements to various news outlets and media companies in remembrance of Maggie.

The actor Hugh Bonneville, who starred alongside Maggie Smith in Downton Abbey, expressed his sympathies to her sons and the extended family through a statement shared with BBC. He noted that anyone who worked with Maggie would vouch for her keen eye, quick wit, and impressive acting ability. “She was a true icon of her time,” he continued, “and while she may no longer be physically present, her extraordinary performances on screen will continue to live on.

Viola Davis

Through her Instagram post, Davis expressed, “The culmination of a career that embodies the essence of an actor. You brought characters to life that stuck with us, stirred our emotions, amused us… made us self-reflect. You broke the boundaries of age… transcended generations. You were the epitome of greatness, Dame Maggie Smith. ‘A lady knows when it’s time to depart.’ Farewell.

Expressing his sorrow, actor Rob Lowe, who collaborated with Dame Maggie Smith on Suddenly Last Summer in 1993, recounted their time working together as akin to sharing the screen with a majestic lion. In a heartfelt tribute, he described her as someone who could outshine everyone else and often did, yet was also hilarious and enjoyable company. Lowe noted that she had no tolerance for foolishness, remarking that we will never witness another like her. Farewell, Ms. Smith, may you rest in peace.

As an ardent fan, I can’t help but express my admiration. Through her Instagram stories, the remarkable Maren Morris shared that she’s always been captivated by Maggie Smith’s roles in The Secret Garden, Hook, Sister Act, and other notable works, including those mentioned earlier in this article. She beautifully penned, “My childhood… Rest in peace, Maggie Smith.

Today, we sadly say goodbye to one of our finest. Rest in peace, Maggie Smith,” the British humorist expressed through X.

In her tribute, Whoopi Goldberg’s Sister Act co-star reminisced about working alongside the late actress, Maggie Smith. “Maggie Smith was an extraordinary woman and a superb actress,” she posted on Instagram, accompanied by a photo of them both dressed as nuns. “I find it hard to accept that I had the privilege of working with such a ‘one-of-a-kind’ star. My deepest sympathies go out to her family … Rest in Peace.

Mourning deeply, we remember Bonnie Wright, our cherished and respected leader of Gryffindor house within the magical world of Harry Potter. She will be profoundly missed by all fans,” Wright, who portrayed Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter series, expressed on Instagram. In a touching tribute, the actor reminisced about his favorite scene with Smith – their dance lessons for the Yule Ball. Extending heartfelt condolences, the actor addressed his sympathies to Maggie’s family during this difficult time.

Emma Watson, who famously portrayed Hermione Granger in the well-known series, posted a heartfelt message on her Instagram story, accompanied by a photo of herself alongside Smith. In her own words, “As I’ve grown older, I hadn’t realized the greatness of Maggie – the woman with whom I had the privilege to act alongside. It’s only as an adult that I’ve come to truly value sharing the screen with a true embodiment of greatness. She was genuine, honest, humorous, and authentic.

Maggie, despite numerous male professors, you truly stood your ground. I appreciate your compassion. I’ll really miss you, my fellow advocate for gender equality.

Known for his iconic role as Harry Potter, Daniel Radcliffe stated that Smith was remarkably intelligent and possessively witty, capable of both intimidating and delighting any being. In a statement, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with her on set and spend time near her. If the term ‘legend’ is ever truly fitting in the acting world, it would be Smith, Radcliffe implied.

Devon Murray, who portrayed Seamus Finnigan in the Harry Potter movies, shared his deep sadness upon learning of Smith’s demise. On social media, he described Maggie as the most intimidating individual he had ever encountered; however, once she opened up, she was the sweetest, most thoughtful, and affectionate woman I have ever known. He mentioned that they had numerous memorable moments together which he would always cherish.

Monarch King Charles III

Maggie Smith is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren. 

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2024-09-28 08:07