Maggie Smith mourned by ‘Downton Abbey’ colleagues, Helen Mirren, Saoirse Ronan and others

WASHINGTON — Actors, collaborators and fans who worked with Maggie Smith are paying tribute to the award-winning actor, known for her roles in the “Harry Potter” movies and “Downton Abbey.” She died Friday at 89.

“It’s a very sad day for the whole culture of theater and cinema in England. … She was one of the greatest actresses of the past century, without a doubt.” — actor Helen Mirren, in an interview with The Associated Press.

“Anyone who ever shared a scene with Maggie will attest to her sharp eye, sharp wit and formidable talent. She was a true legend of her generation and thankfully will live on in so many magnificent screen performances. My condolences to her boys and wider family.” — actor Hugh Bonneville, who starred alongside Smith in “Downton Abbey,” in a statement to the AP.

“Maggie Smith was a truly great actress and we were more than fortunate to be part of the last act in her stellar career. She was a joy to write for, subtle, many-layered, intelligent, funny and heart-breaking. Working with her has been the greatest privilege of my career, and I will never forget her.” — Julian Fellowes, who created, wrote and produced “Downton Abbey,” in a statement to the AP.

“Maggie Smith was a great woman and a brilliant actress. I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to work with the ‘one-of-a-kind.’ My heartfelt condolences go out to the family…RIP.” — actor Whoopi Goldberg, who starred in “Sister Act” with Smith, on Instagram.

“She’s given so much to the world. There’s never been anyone like Maggie. There’s never been anyone who followed the beat of her own drum as much as she has done, as a person and an actor.” — actor Saoirse Ronan, in an interview with the AP.

“I had the unforgettable experience of working with her; sharing a two-shot was like being paired with a lion. She could eat anyone alive, and often did. But funny, and great company. And suffered no fools. We will never see another.” — actor Rob Lowe, on X.