Sandra Bullock considers herself "lucky" to have been friends with Dame Maggie Smith

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

The actresses appeared together in the 2002 comedy-drama 'Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood' - which also starred Ellen Burstyn, Ashley Judd and James Garner - and the film focussed on the relationships within a set in a sleepy Louisiana parish amid a kidnap plot.

Maggie started her career in the theatre in the early 1950s and by the end of the decade had broken into film, eventually winning 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 named 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 that was based on the books by JK Rowling, and the bestselling author was also quick to pay tribute.

She wrote on X: "Somehow I thought she'd live forever. RIP Dame Maggie Smith."

Daniel Radcliffe - who starred as the titular boy wizard from 2001 until 2011 - made his screen debut alongside the late actress on a BBC adaptation of 'David Copperfield' just before they were both cast in the magical franchise, and he noted how he was "heartbroken" to her of her passing.

He wrote on X: "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's final moments came as she was surrounded by family and friends, her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens announced.

In a statement issued via their publicist, they said: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith.

"She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September.

"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."