Sandra Bullock says Maggie Smith made her life sweeter in emotional tribute

American actress Sandra Bullock has expressed her gratitude for the friendship she shared with the late Dame Maggie Smith.

The esteemed British actress passed away on Friday (27.09.24) at the age of 89, and Hollywood star Sandra, 60, has confessed that she cherished the "gentle advice" that the departed screen icon offered her.

Speaking to People, she said: "How lucky am I to have sat in quiet corners with Maggie and a glass of wine? Her stories, her wicked sense of humour and her gentle advice are all things that have made my life sweeter."

The actresses starred together in the 2002 comedy-drama 'Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood', which also featured Ellen Burstyn, Ashley Judd and James Garner. The film explored relationships within a Louisiana parish against the backdrop of a kidnap plot.

Maggie began her career in theatre in the early 1950s and by the end of the decade had transitioned into film. She won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the title role of the 1969 film 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie'. Her second and final Oscar came in 1978 when she was awarded Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Diana Barrie in Herbert Ross' anthology film 'California Suite'.

In 2001, she was cast as Professor McGonagall in the ' Harry Potter ' film series, based on the books by JK Rowling. The bestselling author also paid tribute, writing on X: "Somehow I thought she'd live forever. RIP Dame Maggie Smith." Daniel Radcliffe, famed for his role as Harry Potter, remembered working with the legendary actress on a BBC adaptation of 'David Copperfield' before they both entered the wizarding world. Struck by the news of her demise, he expressed his grief: "Truly heartbreaking, she was one of the most talented women to ever live. She left an amazing legacy and she'll always be remembered."

Maggie Smith's farewell was graced by the presence of her loved ones, as confirmed by her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens. Through a message conveyed by their representative, they shared their deep sorrow: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother."

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