'Harry Potter' Fans Pay Touching Tribute to Maggie Smith at Hogwarts Castle

Dame Maggie Smith brought joy to countless fans through her portrayal of Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter movie series.

The British actress, who died at age 89 on Sept. 27, was mourned around the world, including by some who were at Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla. that same day.

In a touching tribute, people gathered in front of Hogwarts Castle at the theme park and raised replica wands in a moment of silence for Smith, emulating the symbolic mourning gesture seen in the Harry Potter films.

YouTube user Adventuring with Annie captured the memorial on video, prompting users to comment that it was “a beautiful sentiment. 😢.” Others chimed in to share that they “did the same with mine at home,” and some commented simply with the wand emoji in virtual solidarity.

The two-time Academy Award-winning actress was remembered fondly by colleagues as well, with Harry Potter himself, Daniel Radcliffe, writing on X that “she was one of the most talented women to ever live. She left an amazing legacy and she’ll always be remembered.”

In addition to the Harry Potter films, Smith also acted opposite Radcliffe in his first major role in the BBC’s 1999 adaptation of David Copperfield, where she played the peculiar, but deeply loving, great aunt of Radcliffe's titular character.

King Charles III also spoke highly about the Downton Abbey star, sharing on X that he was “deeply saddened” to hear of her death. The monarch continued, writing that “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.”

Next: Maggie Smith Dead at 89: Former Co-Stars and Celebrities React With Heartfelt Tributes