King Charles and Queen Camilla are "deeply saddened" by the death of Dame Maggie Smith

He said in a statement: "My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dame Maggie Smith. 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."

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."

Later on in her career, the 'Sister Act' star became known to TV audiences for her role as Violet Crawley in 'Downton Abbey' and her castmates from the period drama remembered her as being truly unique.

Michelle Dockery, who played Lady Mary Crawley, said: "There was no one quite like Maggie. I feel tremendously lucky to have known such a maverick. She will be deeply missed and my thoughts are with her family."

Hugh Bonneville, who played the actress' son on the series, told People: "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."

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."