Maggie Smiths Downton Abbey and Harry Potter co-stars pay tribute after her death

Farewell to a legend. Dame Maggie Smith, best known for “Harry Potter” and “Downton Abbey,” died at 89 on Friday. Her sons, actors Toby Stephens, 55, and Chris Larkin, 57, announced the news that same day. “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September.An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end,” they said in a statement.The continued, “She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother…We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”Shortly after, Smith’s former co-stars paid tribute to the British icon.

“Downton Abbey” star Michelle Dockery told People on Friday, “There was no one quite like Maggie.I feel tremendously lucky to have known such a maverick.

She will be deeply missed and my thoughts are with her family.”Hugh Bonneville, 60, who starred as her onscreen son, told The Post in a statement, “Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit and formidable talent.She was a true legend of her generation and thankfully will live on in so many magnificent screen performances.

My condolences to her boys and wider family.” “Harry Potter” star Bonnie Wright, 33, who played Ginny Weasley in the film franchise, posted a tribute on her Instagram on Friday.“Our dearly loved and revered head of Gryffindor house ️ you will be so missed by the Harry Potter community,” Wright wrote, next to a photo of Smith. “My favourite scene with Maggie was when we were all learning to dance for the Yule Ball.

She embodied that perfect balance of sass and loving care that McGonagall has.She kept Gryffindors on their toes,” she continued.

“My deepest condolences to Maggie’s family at this time.” Smith had a long and storied career as a theater actress, appearing in countless Shakespeare plays.She al...