Maggie Smith remembered by Downton Abbey co-stars as ‘A True Legend’ following her death

The cast of Downton Abbey is mourning the loss of Dame Maggie Smith, who passed away at the age of 89.

In a statement released through publicist Clair Dobbs, Smith’s sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, confirmed that she “passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday, 27th September.” The statement noted that she was surrounded by family and close friends at the time of her passing, leaving behind her two sons and five grandchildren who are deeply grieving the loss of their “extraordinary” mother and grandmother.

As news of her death spread, tributes poured in for the legendary actress, renowned for her role as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in all six seasons of Downton Abbey.

Michelle Dockery, who portrayed Lady Mary Crawley, expressed her deep sadness in a statement to PEOPLE, saying, “There was no one quite like Maggie. I feel so lucky to have known her. She will be greatly missed, and my heart goes out to her family.”

‘Sharp eye, sharp wit, and immense talent’

Hugh Bonneville, who played her on-screen son, Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham, shared his reflections: “Anyone who worked with Maggie would testify to her sharp eye, sharp wit, and immense talent. She was a true legend, and her work will continue to inspire generations. My heartfelt condolences go to her sons and family.”

Smith was a staple of Downton Abbey from 2010 through 2015 and reprised her role in the two spin-off films, Downton Abbey (2019) and Downton Abbey: A New Era (2022). She was nominated for five Emmys and won three for her exceptional performance as the Dowager Countess.

Paul Giamatti, who appeared in one episode of the series, also honored Smith, remembering her as “a genius and a delight,” and recalling how warmly she treated his young son during a visit to the set.

Smith’s passing marks the end of an era, but her extraordinary legacy will continue through her unforgettable performances on screen.