Emma Watson Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Harry Potter Legend Dame Maggie Smith
Emma Watson, who portrayed Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, paid a heartfelt tribute to her late co-star, reflecting on their time together and Smith’s profound impact on her career.
Watson shared her thoughts on Instagram, expressing that during her youth, she was unaware of Smith’s legendary status. She wrote, “When I was younger I had no idea of Maggie’s legend — the woman I was fortunate to share space with.” As she matured, Watson came to realize that she had “shared the screen with a true definition of greatness.”
Smith’s portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet compassionate deputy headmistress of Hogwarts and head of Gryffindor House, left an indelible mark on the series. Watson highlighted Smith’s authenticity and strength, noting, “She was real, honest, funny and self-honouring.” She further acknowledged the challenges Smith faced as one of the few female professors in the series, stating, “Maggie, there were a lot of male professors and by God you held …
Watson concluded her tribute with gratitude, thanking Smith for her kindness and expressing that she would miss her dearly. This sentiment was shared by other cast members, including Daniel Radcliffe, who remembered Smith as possessing “a fierce intellect, a … ,” and the ability to “intimidate and charm in the same … .” Gary Oldman, who played Sirius … , praised Smith as “one of the true Greats,” whose “magnificent film performances remain for all to … .”
Smith’s passing at the age of 89 was confirmed by her family, who stated that she died peacefully at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, surrounded by friends and family. Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, expressed their devastation at the loss of their extraordinary mother … .
Throughout her illustrious career, Dame Maggie Smith garnered numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, and was celebrated for her versatility and commanding presence on both stage and screen. Her legacy continues to inspire actors and audiences alike, and her contributions to the arts will be remembered for generations to come.
