Maggie Smith tributes: Downton Abbey and Sister Act co-stars pay respect to Harry Potter legend

‘Downton Abbey’ co-star Hugh Bonneville says Oscar-winning Harry Potter actor was a ‘true legend’

Actress Maggie Smith dies at 89 : NPR

Dame Maggie Smith’s Downton Abbey co-star Hugh Bonneville and Sister Act co-star Whoopi Goldberg have led tributes to the iconic actor after she died at the age of 89.

Bonneville, who starred alongside Dame Maggie in the ITV drama, remembered her as a “true legend of her generation” who had “sharp wit and formidable talent”.

Meanwhile, Goldberg called her a “one-of-a-kind” actor.

Dame Maggie played a number of iconic roles over the years, including Professor McGonagall in JK Rowling’s Harry Potter franchise and the fanatical teacher Jean Brodie in The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie.

Maggie Smith Dead: 'Downton Abbey' Star, Oscar Winner Was 89

Her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens announced on Friday the Oscar-winning actress had died in Chelsea and Westminster hospital.

A statement from her children said: “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end.

“She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days.

“We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”