King Charles III and Queen Camilla have expressed deep sorrow following the death of Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away on Friday at the age of 89.
In a heartfelt statement, the King shared, "My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dame Maggie Smith. As the curtain falls on a national treasure, we join all those across the world in remembering her with the deepest admiration and affection." He continued by paying tribute to her, highlighting her "many great performances" and noting that her warmth and wit shone brightly both on and off the stage.
Dame Maggie Smith, best known for her iconic roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, had a long and distinguished career. Over the decades, she received numerous honors from the British monarchy, becoming a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 1969, a Dame in 1990, and a member of the Order of the Companions of Honour in 2014—one of the highest accolades bestowed in the UK.
King Charles and Queen Camilla had a close personal connection with Dame Maggie. In fact, Charles hosted a joint 80th birthday celebration for Dame Maggie and his longtime friend, playwright Sir Ronald Harwood, at Clarence House. This gathering underscored the deep respect and affection the royal couple held for her. The world mourns the loss of a beloved talent, but her legacy of unforgettable performances and genuine charm will live on.
