Dame Judi Dench, the iconic actress, was visibly emotional as she made her first public appearance following the passing of her close friend, Dame Maggie Smith. The entertainment industry was left mourning the loss of the esteemed actress known for her roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, who died at the age of 89 on September 27. Surrounded by her family, Maggie Smith peacefully passed away, sparking an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans. Among those paying their respects was Daniel Radcliffe, who expressed his gratitude for having had the privilege of working with the Harry Potter legend.
During an event at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, Dame Judi Dench, also 89, was moved to tears when asked about the recent losses of both Maggie Smith and Barbara Leigh-Hunt, who had passed away a few weeks earlier at the age of 88. Interviewed by Brendan O’Hea, Dame Judi struggled to contain her emotions as she tried to speak about her dear departed friends. Mentioning her late husband Michael Williams, who succumbed to lung cancer in 2001, triggered a profound reaction from Dame Judi as she grappled with the weight of grief.
The bond between Dame Judi and Dame Maggie traces back to their early days as budding actresses at London’s Old Vic Theatre. Their friendship flourished over the years, with notable collaborations like the film Ladies in Lavender in 2004. A cherished memory shared by Maggie Smith was when she delivered a tribute at an event honouring Judi in 2002, highlighting the laughter and unwavering support that defined their relationship.
Following Maggie Smith’s passing, her family released a touching statement expressing their deep sorrow and gratitude towards the NHS staff who cared for her. Dame Maggie Smith’s legacy as an Oscar-winning actress and beloved figure in the entertainment realm endures through her work and the impact she made on those around her. The publicist for the family conveyed their plea for privacy during this difficult time while acknowledging the outpouring of support from well-wishers.
The emotional display by Dame Judi Dench serves as a poignant reminder of the profound connections forged in the world of entertainment and the enduring impact of treasured friendships. As the industry continues to mourn the loss of luminaries like Maggie Smith, the outpouring of tributes underscores the lasting legacy left by these cultural icons.