Dame Maggie Smith, the beloved actress who graced screens for decades, left an indelible mark on cinema and theatre before her passing at the age of 89 on September 27, 2024. Best known for her role as the formidable Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series, Smith opened up about the profound impact the franchise had on her life in a recently resurfaced interview from 2023 on The Graham Norton Show.
In the lively clip, Graham Norton playfully remarked on how Harry Potter “changed your life, didn’t it?” The audience shared a laugh as Smith responded, “It was a whole different lot of people,” acknowledging the new wave of fans who recognized her primarily from the magical world of Hogwarts.
Norton continued, noting the peculiar nature of being remembered mainly for one role, as if her illustrious career before Harry Potter never existed. With her characteristic wit, Smith quipped back, “No, I never had,” prompting more laughter from the crowd. She recounted a particularly endearing moment when a young fan asked, “Were you really a cat?” to which she humorously replied, “Just pull yourself together! How could I have been?”
Smith also shared a charming story from her local Waitrose grocery store, where a little boy kept staring at her, trying to place her face. “Can I help you?” she asked, only to hear him say, “It’s all right; it’ll come to me in a minute.” This innocent encounter highlighted her ability to connect with audiences of all ages, whether through her roles or her genuine warmth.
Beyond the wizarding world, Maggie Smith was celebrated for her portrayal of Violet Crawley in the acclaimed series Downton Abbey and won an Academy Award for her unforgettable performance in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. In the interview, she humorously remarked about being recognized by “a lot of very small people” who would say hello to her.
Following the announcement of her passing, tributes poured in from fans and co-stars alike, all reflecting on her remarkable talent and legacy. Rupert Grint, who played Ron Weasley, honored her memory by changing his Instagram profile picture to a nostalgic photo of the two. Hugh Bonneville, who portrayed her son in Downton Abbey, expressed his condolences, stating, “Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit, and formidable talent.”
Dan Stevens, another Downton Abbey alum, described her as “one of The Greats,” sharing heartfelt pictures that encapsulated their time together. Gyles Brandreth also paid tribute, describing her as “one of a kind in every way,” reflecting on her unique presence both on and off the screen.
Also, Read: 9 Interesting Facts About Dame Maggie Smith
As a towering figure in the world of acting, Maggie Smith’s legacy will undoubtedly endure through her countless memorable performances, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her fans and colleagues. Her remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of an extraordinary life well-lived.
