In conversation with Maggie Smith: "I led a perfectly normal life until Downton Abbey" | BFI

Dame Maggie Smith, who plays the Dowager Countess of Grantham in ITV's costume drama, talks to Mark Lawson about why her character should be killed off, forgetting which film she's shooting on and why she was considered "too common" to appear in plays at school. This event, which was called Dame Maggie Smith in Conversation, was held as part of the BFI + Radio Times TV festival, which took place in April.
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[@christineredding8676]

Does she realize that she herself is a major reason WHY "Downton Abbey " is such a success?

[@derp195]

I get the impression that she doesn't give a single shit.

[@singhsinga4592]

true. I would only watch it for her appearances.

[@Koribaby1]

She is the best character, hands down.

[@dionlindsay2]

I have a feeling that when shows work very well and they depend for their success on so many different things, it gives even the top actors relief from being a big reason for the success.

[@andreabowersox6318]

She's my favorite!

[@catguy4996]

Maggie Smith acting as Professor McGonagall was one of the best acting choices in history.

[@unaninanine3743]

You must be young

[@ameliesayshola8854]

She’s done soooo much more besides Harry Potter

[@joshuapray]

@Emperor Charlemagne That was her. It's likely that was the first film I saw her in. Watching that as a child, her character transfixed me. I always felt like I was a hair's breadth away from making her yell at me for doing something stupid or having her impart to me a great spooky secret. Haha. Such are the workings of a child's mind!

[@joshuapray]

@@ameliesayshola8854 True, of course. But that doesn't mean OP's sentiment is wrong. I completely agree with Spike here -- it couldn't have been anyone else!

[@alexiswinter7056]

I think my favorite role is in the Exotic Marigold Hotel.

[@chelseapoet3664]

I ran into Maggie Smith in my neighbourhood. She was carrying two heavy looking shopping bags and I offered to carry them for her. She said with a smile "that's terribly kind of you, thank you so much, but I will be fine". I've always admired her.

[@andiemorgan961]

That's because she didn't want you to know where she lived!😂

[@SleepIntoTheDiamondLife]

@@andiemorgan961 or she probably wants to remain self-sufficient as long as she can.

[@Xxlr830]

THE LUCK, no doubts she's so lovely

[@serisairat7918]

Now you know that when she said with smile she means something

[@shanebeudeker441]

Sure...

[@JesseJo95]

Maggie Smith didn’t feel like a successful celebrity BEFORE downton abbey?! 😱 she is a legend

[@colleenh7809]

No, she simply said she used to be able to go out, go to museums alone, and that changed with DA, as that was TV (rather than theater or film).

[@nasevakurttu]

Brits, especially middle class/upper class who go to theatre and watch artsy movies would never approach an actor. It's very American so I'd imagine it's mostly foreigners doing that now.. or TV watching masses. All of these dames and sirs actually live very normally. It's about being approached like that, not about knowing one's value.

[@JesseJo95]

@@nasevakurttu Oh I for sure agree! I wouldn't dream of going up to her or any other celebrity. I'd probably sneak a photo from afar, but thats it haha. It just surprised me since she was so very popular from the HP series and I've seen many clips where she was being "mobbed" by fans during those days, prior to Downtown.

[@auggied6760]

Yes, a legend.

[@dezertdivadezines]

She is!! You’re spot on!

[@kleec0203]

Best character in Downton Abbey. Wouldn't be half the show without her.

[@mnomadvfx]

Yes, which really does make you wonder exactly what they paid her for it. A well known actress like that, in a non adapted (ie Austen/Bronte) TV series? I'd say they probably paid her more than anyone else in the series that's for sure. Though for certain Hugh Bonneville got a huge boost from it, before that I only remember him as doing small bit parts like in Notting Hill.

[@downtoncatbey8596]

Yes so true!!! We modeled our kitty’s voice in our videos after her. She is a legend.

[@shavinmccrotch9435]

Half the time I was just waiting for the next Maggie scene to happen.

[@downtoncatbey8596]

Shavin McCrotch Same! I love her dynamic with Mrs. Crawley.

[@mikeelmira]

I think the show would have still been successful without her.

[@kate2create738]

My favorite thing about Maggie is how she delivers her lines, it's never over dramatic nor too comedic, but genuine. Rare acting these days.

[@JustMe-gs9xi]

i see her as a drama queen lol,, just my input. i didn't say i didn't like her

[@a.c.2695]

I’m guessing that you’re not a big fan of Will Ferrell, are you? 😆 I agree with what you wrote, it doesn’t feel as if you’re watching an actress acting. When I watch her performances, I feel as if I’ve been given insight into someone else’s life. She really embraces the characters and their stories.

[@janettebarr6538]

Yes and she did it all with hard work and no need to be on some talent show getting 15 mins of fame

[@elijahsackville-glucksburg]

exactly! her delivery is just superb.

[@miralabualjadail4206]

A.C. Not a fan of him at all actually. He is one of my least favourite actors. How interesting 🤔 I think you nailed something.

[@auggied6760]

Maggie Smith is one of the greatest actresses in history. Her depth is unparalleled.

[@tlqueck9534]

Aggie D. *** Absolutely correct.

[@MsGuppie2010]

Agree, but Dame Judy Dench is right up there with her

[@lexistarlight3450]

Agree 💯

[@f.michaelbremer-cruz2708]

The English teacher who encouraged Maggie Smith to go into acting made far more of an impact than she probably ever imagined was possible. It's nice that she still remembers her so fondly.

[@vespermartini2556]

You Brits are so lucky to call her your own, she's a gem.

[@WhirledPeace]

We are one, this human race. She is our sister, always, you are to me. Peace 🙏🏼🕊☺️

[@mariaelenakunstmann2713]

@@WhirledPeace nice comment. Cheers from Santiago. Chile.

[@511dydy]

@@WhirledPeace nice comment... But I do envy the brits sometimes

[@511dydy]

@Orion Valentine being english means being british last time i checked.

[@jeddy_bravo]

@Orion Valentine how is that offensive? 😂😂Nowadays people get offended by everything

[@jodie4609]

She had a line and for years I did know it was her the film is called the love letter with Tom Selleck . She is talking with a jogger who asks why she does not jog. Her answer " when I feel the need to exercise. I lie down until it passes. " 30 years and it still cracks me up

[@reneebobenrieth501]

I've tried to look for that movie, and I don't see it. The line is accredited to Mark Twain, but I'd love to hear her deliver it. I just can't seem to find the movie you're saying she was in.

[@jodie4609]

@@reneebobenrieth501 try searching this way . the love letter 1999 it also starred ellen degeneres

[@reneebobenrieth501]

@@jodie4609 thank you!

[@jodie4609]

@@reneebobenrieth501 😀

[@wherearetheturtles610]

😂😂😂

[@nishevithashanmugarajah]

What a masterclass in comedy, humility without being self-deprecating, dry delivery, perfect timing, honest, she's A LEGEND

[@lucymilani7333]

A class act to be sure !

[@pjj9491]

Her facial expressions in Downton...the eyes...love❤❤❤❤❤

[@ricexbucket]

She's 82 in this interview.... good on her.

[@iamsheel]

WHAT?! she looks older than that.

[@bellbookcandle3051]

I think she's had at least one round with cancer: & she's one of the Old Guard of British actors who don't do plastic surgery.

[@mattstevens7601]

@@KL-ng4qm how old are you?

[@KL-ng4qm]

@@mattstevens7601 for what?

[@KL-ng4qm]

@@mattstevens7601 24

[@TheRealDarrylStrawberry]

i just started watching Downton Abbey...every line she delivers is pure gold.

[@nickmorrell3559]

She is a walking masterclass

[@mrswanson5013]

What's a weekend? I was sold after that line

[@bathtangle]

Her performance, walking to library after Sybil died, just a couple of minutes scene, should have won an Emmy. Old school actresses knew how to portray grieving without weeping and wailing for close ups.

[@raraavis7782]

That scene is so heavy. It made the awfulness of it all strike home in a way, not even Sybil's death scene did. Emmy worthy, indeed.

[@lillybrooks7662]

Was that in Downton Abbey? I only got to see the first season…

[@kisslena]

“What’s a weekend?” Changed my life. It never ever occurred to me that someone would be so rich they experience time differently.😂 Ms. Smith’s delivery as the Dowager Countess was impeccable, she’s just a phenom. And sooo funny! 😘

[@marianonseq472]

It was not a matter of wealth, weekends are rather a modern invention. People used to get some time off on only religious festivities, or to go to church on Sundays. For what I remember from history books, labourers were just begining to fight for rights such as a FULL DAY off( there was this case of an anarchist so involded in the cause that wanted to name his son "Sunday Rest", so go figure).

[@anona2017]

It goes the other way, weekends do not happen in certain professions and many are too poor to have a weekend. I forget that weekends exist a lot of the time until someone mentions it.

[@lever0811]

Classy lady

[@juliag.5114]

@@anona2017 But still, you know what they are. And rich people today also know what is a weekend even if they’ve never worked a day in their lives, because they’ll likely employ people and these people are entitled to their day off (in most countries). It has more to do with labour rights than wealth. We see in downton abbey, those people had half a day off at most, if someone allowed them. I remember an episode were the footmen asked for some time off because the family was away and the butler was offended by it because the family was still paying them, so how could they possibly ask that. It was just unimaginable the idea of someone having a day off or two and still be payed for it, so of course rich people didn’t even know what a weekend was

[@schubertuk]

Yes it is interesting how we all forget that The Weekend, and indeed being a Teenager are modern inventions - 20th century inventions. Before this point people would be working every day (except for some time off for church on Sunday) -- and if that would be from the ages of 12 or younger unless their family could afford a private education. So The Dowager's comments are not so much a matter of class, wealth and status as a matter of The Dowager being a person of Victorian or 19th century sensibilities unaware or perhaps pretending to be unaware of the changing times.

[@rosscityofliverpool.983]

Maggie is old school, says it how it is, great actress and a nice and very funny person....just the best.

[@claudiaholmes9086]

Yes!

[@TheMegaMaggis]

Toby Maggie Smiths son

[@femmeginedelooze4176]

Films met Maggi smith

[@stephencampbell9182]

Femmegine De Looze I do not understand your comment. Mainly because it makes no sense.

[@neilcowan6789]

albert hammerslag I think he means "films made Maggie".

[@babacar3519]

some people adopt kids, can I adopt her as my grandmother???

[@ivsbanks]

Sorry...I called dibs on her before the end of season 1! :)

[@mirrenfan2]

@@ivsbanks Sorry...I called dibs several years before Downton even started! ;)

[@Mae-pj8ej]

she's my second cousin ahaha

[@Mae-pj8ej]

sorry third cousin lol

[@Lliara83]

me too :) En plus elle a le meme age que la mienne elle est géniale

[@Zalyplants]

She’s hilarious. When she said to her son “sorry I thought you were a waiter” I lost it 😂

[@katawhatever4278]

Because he didn't had the proper closed :D

[@lanebrluz12]

melhor cena kkkkkkkkk

[@sarahjones8396]

I don’t remember that story, but it sounds hilarious!

[@Zalyplants]

@@sarahjones8396 it was when her son lost his footman and had to be dressed by a trainee.

[@Kref3]

@@Zalyplants no, it was when the at that the black tie dinner suit (the tuxedo for Americans) became a fashion. In earlier years / seasons they suited up in a white tie evening dress worthy of a state dinner, even if the only persons at the dinner were close family. Black tie is VERY unformal compared to white tie. ___ Edit: found it. I forgot it happened because Thomas had to take over for some time, though one should not consider him a „trainee“, he was in service for a long time prior to the war. We were both right to a degree :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppKzYoV8n8x4osk

[@Lobxx1]

She's so unintentionally funny, what a talent.

[@carmellovelock2870]

Wonderfully quick witted yet natural responses. 🥰

[@markwhitman9029]

I KNOW i Want to see "Abbey" but never have! I just have seen all of her great movies and she WAS hilarious in Jean Brodie but not intended to be.

[@bessmahaneypilates8638]

“It got to a point where it was too late to catch up “ LOL, she’s hilarious 😂

[@pattyoneill6724]

How about The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1969, saw it it in the drive in with my family. She was so good in that and thought she was great ever since. She was hysterical in Downton Abbey, and is priceless.

[@christypliler7151]

That made me laugh out loud. I relate so hard. 😂

[@dihboas]

"sitting in that trailer, day after day and not being used..." I agree we didn't had enough of McGonagall and suddenly I want to slap the shit out of every Harry Potter director, because Dame Maggie wanted to be of use and they all neglected her

[@ausmurray9437]

Diego Meneses that’s one thing I never cared for about the later Harry Potter films how little McGonagall was seen. Maggie Smith is too good an actress to leave sitting in a trailer.

[@highkergaymer8301]

She filled up the scenes so perfectly that I never really noticed just how little she is in the movies!!

[@skinni_the_P00hBear]

Jordan Hamilton Same. Now it kinda upsets me 😔

[@flufflepuffle]

Mc Gonagal had a major role in many, but especially in the later books, such as book 5 where she wrangled with Umbridge. But instead they decided to make Harry's romance dramatic. I would have preferred each book to have two movies, but have it all done justice to.

[@redbirdtraveler3596]

@@ausmurray9437 I believe it's because she had been battling cancer.

[@funtec12]

On Downton, Maggie's dialogue is the absolutely best scripting in the entire show! Her character's personality and comments are a delight. She always stands out. She's got such spunk and wit and a wonderfully unintended humor! Love her!

[@RosesAreRed0407]

She was absolutely the best character in the show and that's mainly because of her delivery. She is absolutely amazing ❤

[@gailcrowe727]

Maggie Smith is a brilliant actress, she steals every scene she’s in.

[@janetjuberg8871]

O0

[@louchat333]

She’s so sane. What a nice thing. So many actors are completely nuts.

[@Dinckelburg]

I'm sure she has her moments 😊

[@louchat333]

@@Dinckelburg as we all do.

[@sweetpjeb23]

I love how humble she is. A lot of people pretend to be humble but you can tell that she doesn't fake it. She seems so genuine even though she's been in the business for decades. She's absolutely incredible. She went through having breast cancer in the middle of filming Harry Potter and her performance and delivery of Professor McGonagall didn't slip a bit. Her wit and personality hasn't flinched a bit the older she's gotten. She was in her late 70's when Downton Abbey first started and she was completely on her game. And in the Lady in the Van, she was 80. Let that sink in. That was an absolutely incredible performance. If I can even walk when I'm 80 I'll be content.

[@marymary68ify]

ONG I did not know she is a cancer survivor. She is wonderful, in spite of her troubles she has survived and continues to thrive.

[@Badtastemamma]

What a wonderful accolade to Dame Maggie! I totally agree.

[@suzannemoogan9675]

Yes ,she is a truly an amazing woman and an unsurpassed actress with tremendous spirit

[@Oceananswer]

I think that's what happens when you get old.

[@rebeccamaugier6246]

Many actors don't view their own work.

[@amhunter9619]

If none of you have seen her in 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie' then get yourselves the movie. She was totally FABULOUS!

[@MariaLopez-hc2nm]

I Know!! Brilliant portrayal of a Spinster all gone pear shaped...

[@ablaqueate7437]

YEP!

[@danielyoung5137]

Oh…HELL to the YES! Won the Oscar and immediately established herself here in a role that hitherto had belonged (on stage) to Vanessa Redgrave.

[@irismac2442]

100%

[@patriciajrs46]

Yes she was.

[@captaincinema5066]

Here is a perfect example of how beauty triumphs over age. The woman is still hands-down, stunningly beautiful.

[@CK-dp6je]

Why do people confuse inner beauty with outer beauty? 🙄

[@southlondon86]

@@CK-dp6je Bit rude...

[@saraswatkin9226]

Did you mean natural beauty?

[@aprilsterrett5543]

It’s her eyes

[@221b-Maker-Street]

I think you’ve got a bit confused with your idioms. That’s not what beauty triumphs over age means. 🤔

[@jimsgirl1465]

During this lockdown (April 20, 2020) we could all ask, "What is a week end?".

[@alefn8920]

one of the most beautiful jokes in history

[@camo770]

Yes

[@jimsgirl1465]

@I'LL BE BACK ! I am, and I do indeed!

[@downtoncatbey8596]

Hahaha Yes so true!!! We modeled our kitty’s voice in our videos after her. She is a legend.

[@brett6905]

@@downtoncatbey8596 Nobody cares about your stupid boring cat videos :)

[@kevinmcguire5696]

The thing I love about her is how funny she is, yet she rarely wants to acknowledge it.

[@katherinewinkler8847]

I just love how laid back and real she is .

[@victorjanusz7154]

“The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie” 1970. Best Actress Oscar. I was ten- she had me THEN!! (For life!)

[@kathleennelson3465]

I was 12 and I’ve never forgotten it…was awestruck

[@thecourtlyalchemist]

One of my all time favorite films. I watch it about once a year and it surprises me every time.

[@cookie_dough_hangover]

Ah!!! She was absolutely brilliant in it!

[@yootoob4516]

A true living icon. I love that Harry Potter brought her an entirely new and youthful following. Then Downton Abbey revved up her career again.

[@debpatterson4645]

Those two shows made her more visible, but she has always had a career. I can't think of too many years where she hasn't had something on the go. Look at her list of movies and tell me when her career needed revving up. With very few exceptions, she's been in at least one show a year since 1955.

[@pdoll96]

yoo toob "Is that a student??" I don't know why the way she delivered that line just cracked me up. I love her.

[@hrngofcr1]

Loved her in Marigold Hotel too...oh heck I love all her work.

[@patriciayeiser6405]

Please, spare me harry the potter and downton.

[@WhydoIneedanotherusername]

@@patriciayeiser6405 you can't watch an interview with someone and not have them mention some of their most iconic roles...

[@cbrownes]

Nothing like Maggie Smith. She's incredible! Always makes me laugh.

[@choirkitty]

Charlie Noah she is amazing! you can't help but love her :)

[@s.t.martin7939]

Charlie Noah I Love Miss Maggie!! She's Awesome!! Funny, So Talented!!! Kind of on the Same Caliber as Our Beloved Betty White!!! Most "Downton" Fans May Not Know She Won An Oscar,...In the Late '60s, I Think!!

[@cbrownes]

S. T. Martin ahh Betty White!

[@harpphila7548]

Betty White is wonderful, but she could never do any of the work Maggie Smith does.

[@patriciax3677]

apples and oranges, but both great women

[@Linda98671]

I can’t wait for her on Downton Abbey. She is the best thing about it! She’s wonderful.. ❤

[@turihenderson7755]

"It got to a point where it was too late to catch up" - this is my relationship with most television.

[@BethyKable]

She is so talented and doesn’t even realize it....it just comes naturally. She is the main reason Downtown Abbey was such a huge success. She was the lynch pin that made all of it happen so well. Her range and depth is extraordinary in every role she plays too. Love from America Maggie!

[@Valentin-oc5nh]

I‘m pretty sure she realizes that she is an amazing artist as she has been throughout her life. its just that she is self-critical, as any good artist will be.

[@emilyfishburn6701]

I fell in love with Maggie Smith's acting as a child, watching The Secret Garden. She was fantastic in that and then I squealed when I saw her in the First Harry Potter film

[@MalloryKnox.]

The secret garden, thats a blast from the past yikes

[@MalloryKnox.]

Totally forgot about its existance

[@6eloved]

YES 👏🏽

[@beth3263]

The Secret Garden and Hook. I'll always remember her as Lady Wendy in Hook 🥰

[@zahrahkhan5971]

One of my favourite films.

[@jonathancineus6424]

A legend on screen. A legend off screen. So glad she’s getting her flowers while we have her. I just love her. 💐

[@swfcindy]

Maggie Smith is so very special. She truly, truly brought the Dowager alive. Bless her.

[@justagirl7823]

I love Maggie in Downton but does anyone remember her role as Mother Superior in Sister Act?! That’s still my favorite role for her. If you thought she makes a fierce Dowager Countess, she was an even fiercer nun ❤️

[@patriciajrs46]

Yes, she was.

[@frakte]

The way she can make a simple, seemingly mundane line like “Please do not smoke in here” stand out with her tone, pacing, the thin line of her mouth, and the steely gaze of her eyes is testament to her genius.

[@pamelaoliver8442]

Yes!! Completely forgot she was in that until recently! Such a legend

[@Donono84]

That’s the movie I was introduced to her. Always loved her since then

[@angelwhispers2060]

Yes Dame Maggie Smith and her relationship with Whoopi Goldberg's character in the first Sister Act was absolutely necessary or that film would have been atrocious

[@backto-il9ne]

This is legit like a comedy stand up show. Everything she says is funny lol

[@downtoncatbey8596]

Yes so true!!! We modeled our kitty’s voice in our videos after her. She is a legend.

[@racheld.4583]

LOL “Mirrors are tricky” - girlllll, don’t I know. Facts.

[@redwoods7370]

She's the star of every film she's in no matter who the other actors are. She was perfection in "A Room With A View."

[@alicat1564]

Maggie Smith was brilliant in downton abbey, my favorite character in the whole series

[@brucekuehn4031]

Well, she did get all the funniest lines. Some great writing on that series!

[@downtoncatbey8596]

Yes so true!!! We modeled our kitty’s voice in our videos after her. She is a legend.

[@krystaldispatchbetttymcgin7702]

Maggie Smith could read a tax law book and transfix me. I could listen to her talk all day.

[@ForeverFemslasher]

Her amazing voice is the reason why I started to seriously learn English.

[@forestgreenorgangeekorgani2084]

I feel that way about all the Harry Potter actors.

[@tarawitchshakespeare5152]

Me too

[@BMC2019]

I love this woman. Epitome of class and refinement

[@rebeccasimantov5476]

And so down to earth at the same time...

[@willhovell9019]

Particularly as a working class person. Veronica East ...

[@gracielagibbon6046]

And wit!

[@willhovell9019]

@@gracielagibbon6046 absolument

[@lorrainejohnson5461]

The first movie I saw her in was called 'Evil Under The Sun" and immediately fell in love with her acting. She can steal a scene with just a facial expression. I just saw Downton Abbey (the series) last month and OMG! I would be up until 2am watching because she was so great in that role. What a gem❤️

[@wbcjr17106]

I hope you'll permit me to suggest some other comic roles--Plaza Suite (her second Academy Award winning performance); Travels With My Aunt (sort of an English Auntie Mame); and Murder By Death (riffing on Nora Charles opposite David Niven as her Nick Charles stand-in.)

[@laddiemeadows1156]

Oh, I hope I'm that lively and animated at 82 years old. Simply delightful.

[@SunnyBear]

"it's always weird seeing yourself, even mirrors are tricky" is also a wonderful quote. I would guess that quite a few people can relate to that :)

[@Marksman3434]

Maggie Smith is just so wholesome and lovely as a person. She’s like the grandma we all wish we had.

[@LizzieDeanMakes]

I was ill a lot as a child and my dad brought me home the VHS of the 1993 Secret Garden and I watched it over and over again - she had such an impact on my childhood in that role as Mrs Medlock. I just think she is wonderful 😊

[@automnejoy5308]

That VHS had such a nice case. Think I still have it around somewhere. I'm pretty sure I wore out the VHS itself. I'll have to ask my ayah.

[@schuhby]

Imagine having Maggie Smith, Judy Dench and Miriam Margolyes as guests at your dinner party.

[@helenbennett5707]

MyDecozo My idea of heaven

[@msducks3397]

I saw a story this morning about Dick Van Dyke, Norman Lear, Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks together and when I saw this, I thought how wonderful it would be to have Maggie Smith and Judy Dench in the same room with them, add Michael Caine and John Cleese...I wonder if I would ever catch my breath.

[@ghanaianfoundingfathersdau80]

After seeing them together in 'Ladies in Lavender', I think it'll be totally exhilarating.

[@cathypeloquin7323]

Love that show!!!

[@1931fabridge]

GhanaianFoundingFather'sDaughter just

[@sunshinelollipops5512]

“You’re not alone when you moan”....gawd how I love this woman..

[@downtoncatbey8596]

Yes so true!!! We modeled our kitty’s voice in our videos after her. She is a legend.

[@NTLHK]

hi i understand everyword of this line , but i no idea what make this line remarkable ..?can explain to me , i m asian

[@joshuak4599]

@@NTLHK I'll just give my take on it. In this case, 'to moan' means 'to whine'. She had plenty of complaints, but at least she wasn't the only one.

[@NasikaSakura]

@@NTLHK It may be because I am American so to moan in American English usually has a sexual implication rather than meaning to complain, so I thought of it initially as one is not immensely pleasured without someone else with them, and someone else hearing them make an embarassing noise. So, as you can imagine, I was terribly confused why this was the response.

[@MissJoy16]

@@NasikaSakura I think you're both right and it was a double meaning, which makes it even funnier, lol

[@eclipsedbotanicals7939]

There is just something about Maggie smith that speaks to the soul. From the delivery of her words-nothing is ever forced. She’s never been one to fear speaking her mind and though she never feels it is necessary to be the center or attention, her aura is like a beacon to anyone in the viscidity. She has always been my favorite actress and one of my bucket list items is to meet her one day-

[@christinecongdon5917]

Love Maggie to bits.

[@jenniebugs1]

I particularly liked her acting in Ladies in Lavender where she starred alongside Judy Dench. The two of them together were superb. Maggie has a way of saying 100 words with just a facial expression and in this film she blew me away. I love her other work as well of course.

[@user-cb2zf3nh1z]

Maggie Smith has integrity, intelligence, and a strong actor. Love her acting. One of my favorite people.

[@jacquelinehill8312]

mine too

[@tiffsaver]

The best actors, in my opinion, are the most humble ones. Maggie certainly qualifies.

[@tiffsaver]

+Dan Cowan GRAND Dame Maggie.

[@markschattefor6997]

+tiffsaver So true, like Anthony Hopkins in "the world's fastest Indian"

[@Relmyna]

Micheal Caine is another great actor.

[@kitcar500]

SHE IS THAT I would like to see her in something with her son TOBY STEPHENS he is grand as well something with humore

[@nigelmansfield3011]

aggie Smith is a legend. Her performance in 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie' was incredible!

[@hilaryc3203]

When I was a small child, I watched The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie on television. Maggie Smith in that role freaked me out, but I have loved her in everything I've seen her in. She's splendid on and off the screen.

[@lynna.r7772]

"With that daft hat on my head ... for harry potter " I love how they were waiting for her to specify which show she's talking about since she wears hats in almost all her roles

[@downtoncatbey8596]

Yes so true!!! We modeled our kitty’s voice in our videos after her. She is a legend.

[@nefariousbecks]

Watching interviews of this woman and british colleagues like Miriam Margolyes, Emma Thompson, Julie Walters, Helen Mirren, Imelda Staunton and Judi Dench is, in a way, self-education. Even if you don't act or anything, their witty intellect and humble honesty is something to strive for.

[@seanferrari6825]

So true

[@roberttrepagnier9149]

No matter the size of the role she is always brilliant

[@jessicanguyen5340]

I can't forget her question scene: "What is the weekend?"

[@parypearl382]

"What is a weekend" is the funniest line in all of Downton Abbey!

[@timetraveler-zz3ln]

"You're not alone when you moan"😂 I love Maggie Smith

[@eleanoruhlmann8162]

Can't remember name of film. It was hilarious.! She was a cheeky typist who with husband were involved in taking a million pounds out of the country .She was amazing as a young girl.!

[@eleanoruhlmann8162]

Am in my ninetys but haven't as yet got dimentia!

[@annroush5424]

That marvelous quick turn of the head is perfectly iconic Maggie Smith. I adore her. I feel a sort of a thrill every time I see her do it. Wonderful, wonderful Maggie Smith. Thank you for you,Maggie.

[@robertjames6640]

Maggie Smith has always drawn me to watch and listen to all she has done during a magnificent career. Downton Abbey came totally alive during her scenes, especially the ones where she and Penelope Wilton sparred with each other. They must have had real fun doing those.

[@SibylleLeon]

How anyone could have forgotten her after A Room With A View, is beyond me. She was marvellous as the fussy spinster chaperone! I've loved her ever since.

[@kathleenwagner3845]

Sibylle Leon this yes.

[@DurandalOfAegis]

@@kathleenwagner3845 Loved her in Sister Act.

[@milenakoryczan3886]

Her appearance in 'A Room With A View' was arguably one of my favourite of her appearances🥺🥰

[@christianeflentie1228]

Yes, I'm a Southern Californian born and bred and would chase this woman down the street after "A Room with a View". I have admired her ever since and she is delightful in Downton Abbey, although I'm new too it and have not gotten over Matthew yet.🙄 Plus, she was great in "Becoming Jane".

[@christinacatalano]

I LOVE that movie, yes!!

[@yanin211ify]

her blatant honesty is so refreshingly delightful!

[@charmlaughton5804]

Yanin Arzola - Salleh totally unaffected by fame . A truest humble lady with bags of talent .

[@jamesgray1210]

A true national treasure. She can steal a scene with under ten words.

[@sunshinelynee5488]

She's honestly got just as much cheek and sass in this interview as she did as the Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey. I mean, probably even more actually

[@briane5706]

One of her dearest old friends is Sir Ian McKellen. He does a wicked impression of Dame Maggie.

[@vanswty]

Omg it's soooo good.

[@pat12533]

She is more priceless than the Crown Jewels. Truly a living treasure.

[@leannasmith192]

I recently saw her in the movie The Lady in the Van which is based on a true story of a writer and a homeless woman in England. I greatly enjoyed it.

[@patriciajrs46]

A jewel in Britain's cap for sure and a great treasure to the world. I am very glad she made motion pictures. Their permanance will assure that we have her to cherish for years to come.

[@warrenk83]

She's such a joy to watch, whether she's acting or in interviews.

[@majbrittcastrupjrgensen2874]

My grandmother was an exact copy of Maggie Smith! In every way, the look, the way she is....everything! I adored her!

[@milenakoryczan3886]

Awwww🥺 my greataunt is also exactly like Dame Maggie🥰

[@mushmouf1400]

Aww

[@rebradroot]

My grandmother was exactly like the Dowager Countess. Downton gave me PTSD.

[@lzrd8460]

Lucky you!

[@ber1779]

@@rebradroot 😂

[@joysanders4289]

I love her acting and also in conversation. So frank and funny. Laughed at the thought of Maggie Smith and Miriam Margolyes in a trailer , moaning. Loved the "you're not alone when you moan."

[@lynbeasley618]

Oh dear, no comparison 🙄😣

[@nicolehennessey4082]

Maggie Smith is a very rare and precious gem! Listening to this interview gladdened my heart. She is such a brilliant actress and a delightful wit! Thank you Maggie Smith for sharing yourself with the world!

[@GeorgeMorgan6600]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@msinvincible2000]

I knew her from Sister's act, and have admired her ever since (almost 30 years)

[@mushmouf1400]

I'd forgotten about that! From my childhood I'm thinking Hook but I Totally forgot about that.

[@MsRedsox123]

Also in wife’s club… she was great in that too

[@virgoleighton]

Mother Superior : Girl Groups? Boogie-Woogie On The Piano? What Were You Thinking? 😅 Sister Act • 1992

[@bevoss7573]

First saw her in The Secret Garden when I was a young child, I've loved her ever since. Amazing actress, and such quick wit that keeps you on your toes!

[@annemchurchwell]

And Don't forget Sister Act 1 and 2.

[@soilgrasswaterair]

Same here :)

[@ternitamas]

I loved that film!!

[@susannekarnowka5889]

oh I loved the movie but reading the book ruined it a little bit for me because the book is much better

[@babyjenks1784]

I think "The Secret Garden" was the first movie I really saw her in as well. She was an amazing Mrs. Medlock. Years later when I read the first Harry Potter book (before the movies were even announced) I thought to myself "I'm going to imagine Mrs. McGonagle as Maggie Smith"

[@TheofficialMBonline]

You can really tell how much she dislikes always being asked about Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. The way she looks when she speaks about it really tells it all. When she is asked about Alan Bennett her face lights up and she is excited talking about it. Actually a bit sad, but understandable that Harry Potter and Downton must be tiring for her...

[@valmurphy2462]

Like Alec Guinness in Starwars

[@annekeown2289]

It's possible that the Alan Bennett material was more of an acting challenge.

[@fillhixx]

Actually, one can never really tell when an actor is on a stage….is it them, or a character…

[@MrTorleon]

Perhaps not everyone is aware, but Maggie Smith has been acting a very long time. I recall seeing her with Laurence Olivier, with the Royal Shakespeare Company in the 1960`s, acting the role of Desdemona against his Othello.Young, vivacious and already an extremely talented actress.What a long and distinguished career to have had :)

[@lindsaygrose-harding1941]

Anything that Dame Maggie has ever done is brilliant! She and Judi Dench are the greatest actresses of our era. They are both wonderful, funny and entertaining Ladies. I love them both 🥰

[@violetwilliamson2570]

,and so humble....despite being utterly magnificent!!!

[@ernestinehemingway7799]

@@violetwilliamson2570Dame Maggie and Judi together in*tea with Mussolini*

[@jackcuellar357]

Meryl Streep has to be included. She would be a dame if she was english

[@warrenk83]

"You're not alone when you moan." Classic!

[@markwhitman9029]

Dame Maggie is one of the greatest actresses that ever lived! Loved her ever since Jean Brodie!

[@tobalinac6781]

I adore this woman. ❤ Class act and tough to follow. So witty, such talent. What a treasure.

[@phtevlin]

I fell in love with Maggie Smith when she played "Jean Brodie"; my absolute favorite role of hers was her Charlotte in "Room with a View".

[@mvs3896]

I totally agree with you. Amazing performance! Also loved her with Judi Dench again in Ladies In Lavender

[@fuggetaboutit70]

Mine too! A Room With A View is my all-time favorite movie.

[@odemilson]

I love how an specific kind of humour slips off so naturally (and sometimes even unintentionally) from british-accent performers. Even when they're taking about not so funny stuff or sorts. You see Maggie talking, and you get that's not something that comes from a specific character or another, but something that's familiar to the actress herself. What a delightful interview.

[@user-mc3nz6zl9q]

Обожаю и восхищаюсь ! Потрясающая актриса Мэгги Смит❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@stephenmason9527]

This wonderful woman gave life to one of the best television characters of all-time.

[@ammotomma]

Captivating woman, she is a magnet for the ears and fascinatingly astute in her delivery, she embodies charisma.

[@nmisk3127]

I knew nothing of Downton Abbey and the entire show was 3 or 4 years over when I finally decided to watch all of it. Maggie Smith absolutely took my breath away and made me laugh out loud repeatedly. She is so effing brilliant. The scene where Coras Mom is singing to the dowager just has me on the floor everytime. The entire show is brilliant, everyone in it is so exceptional, but Maggie snatched my heart from the very first episode.

[@user-uo3tm1dv5i]

)) ! just decided to watch it now August 2021)))

[@carmellovelock2870]

Indeed.❤

[@suzannebernard4014]

Same here! Only discovered Downton in 2022, years later. Love it, but Maggie made the show!! Absolutely brilliant

[@michelefritze3988]

Maggie is THE reason for her fame and the fame of Downton. She is phenomenal.

[@patsmith5947]

She is a huge part of the success of Downtown Abbey, it’s like the others are supporting actors and actresses. We wait for her quips and love them, she really makes the show. She is very funny, I love her sense of humor. Everybody loves her. We all wish for a grandmother or best friend like her.

[@fillhixx]

Those are lines in the script, not impromptu quips.

[@LisaGemini]

I've always loved Maggie because she's funny and laughs at herself. The happiest people can laugh at themselves. She's a treasure, a legend.

[@kathyryder9157]

I think there's very little difference between Maggie the woman and Maggie the actress. She has an edge that coming from someone else, people could be insulted, she just tells it as it is. It's brilliant, she's brilliant.

[@monelleny]

When I see Maggie Smith, I think of how brilliant she was in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, an unforgettable movie.

[@editfazekas3854]

Or in "Travels with my aunt" in the 70s. Has been a fan ever since.

[@monelleny]

@@editfazekas3854 - Did not see that. Will look for it. Thanks!

[@alexaelliott2598]

I enjoyed her as Isadora Duncan way back when..

[@monellerichmond7208]

@@alexaelliott2598 - Will look for that, too. Thanks.

[@suzyparker8303]

I saw her live on stage in London in the early 70's in a Noel Coward play. She's phenomenal!

[@juliesmock7614]

I'm Downton Abbey what I loved about her the most was her facial expressions. Her feigned distaste or shock was quite amusing. She's one of the best actresses or maybe the best actress I have ever seen. I also liked Matthew's mom as she was also a really good actress but not like Maggie