The tragic news of Maggie Smith’s death swept across the internet on September 27th. The actress, who played Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter films, died at the age of 89. Now Daniel Radcliffe and the rest of the Harry Potter cast are sharing their fond memories of one of their favorite co-stars.
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Daniel Radcliffe Remembers Maggie Smith
Daniel Radcliffe played the famous Harry Potter in the film series and Maggie Smith played Professor McGonagall. In a statement with Variety, He remembered his co-star as “incredibly kind” and “a fierce intellect.”
“The first time I met Maggie Smith, I was 9 years old,” Daniel began. “And we were reading through scenes for David Copperfield, which was my first job. I knew virtually nothing about her other than that my parents were awestruck at the fact that I would be working with her. The other thing I knew about her was that she was a Dame, so the first thing I asked her when we met was ‘Would you like me to call you Dame?’ at which she laughed and said something to the effect of ‘Don’t be ridiculous!’”
“I remember feeling nervous to meet her and then her putting me immediately at ease,” he continued. “She was incredibly kind to me on that shoot, and then I was lucky enough to go on working with her for another 10 years on the Harry Potter films.”
“She was a fierce intellect, a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant, and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny,” Daniel added.
The actor went on to say he’s “amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her.”
“The word legend is overused,” he concluded. “But if it applies to anyone in our industry, then it applies to her. Thank you, Maggie.”
An Incredible Actress, Woman, And Person
Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley, also spoke out after the actress’ death. She shared an Instagram post with a photo of Maggie Smith and a heartfelt caption.
In her caption, Bonnie referred to Maggie Smith as “Our dearly loved and revered head of Gryffindor house.” She then noted how much her friend would be missed and shared one of her most cherished memories with the Oscar winner. She wrote, “My favorite scene with Maggie was when we were all learning how to dance for the Yule Ball. She embodied that perfect balance of sass and loving care that McGonagall has.”
Bonnie finished her post by offering condolences for Maggie’s family and loved ones. Devon Murray, who played Seamus Finnigan, also spoke out making an Instagram post of his own. Claiming that Maggie Smith was “the kindest, most caring, and loving Lady” he had ever met.
He also shared that she gave the best hugs along with some hilarious memories that the two shared on set together. Several other casemates spoke out, honoring Maggie Smith, as well. Everyone had nothing but kind words to say, showing that this woman was as fabulous off-screen as she was on screen. She will be deeply missed.
This story’s featured image is by Ian Gavan/Getty Images.
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