King Charles Remembers ‘National Treasure’ Maggie Smith in Touching Tribute

King Charles III joined the wave of public figures who paid tribute to the late Maggie Smith with a personal message released by Buckingham Palace on Friday, Sept. 27.

The 75-year-old monarch’s message of condolence came just hours after the Harry Potter actress’ family confirmed the sad news of her passing on Friday morning at 89.

“My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dame Maggie Smith,” the king’s message began. “As the curtain comes down on a national treasure, we join all those around the world in remembering with the fondest admiration and affection her many great performances and her warmth and wit that shone through both on and off the stage.”

The palace shared the heartfelt words in a post on Instagram Stories and on X , formerly Twitter. Accompanying the message was a snapshot of the king laughing as he stood chatting with the Death on the Nile actress at an event years ago. The photo was taken at the 2016 Pride of Britain Awards, which was held that year on Oct. 31 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, England.

News of the Downton Abbey actress’ death led to an outpouring of anguished messages from those in Hollywood and beyond, with her former co-stars leading the parade of tributes that spread on social media. Daniel Radcliffe , who starred alongside Smith in all eight Harry Potter movies, was among the first to confront the “truly heartbreaking” news.

“She left an amazing legacy and she’ll always be remembered,” Radcliffe wrote of Smith, whom he also described as “one of the most talented women to ever live.”

"Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit and formidable talent,” remembered Hugh Bonneville , who shared many scenes with Smith through their years together starring in Downton Abbey . “She was a true legend of her generation and thankfully will live on in so many magnificent screen performances.”

The Academy Award-winning actress’ two sons announced their mother’s death in a statement released on Friday. Smith is survived by her sons and five grandchildren.

Next: Maggie Smith Dead at 89: Fans Remember Actress' Prolific Career and Legacy