Dame Judi Dench mourns the loss of Maggie Smith after fond memories shared

In December 2023, a special BBC tribute aired to honor the late Dame Maggie Smith on what would have been her 90th birthday. Dame Judi Dench, a close friend and fellow actress, shared personal anecdotes about their deep-rooted friendship that spanned several decades, starting from their first meeting in a dressing room at the Old Vic theatre in 1957. Dench revealed her tradition of planting individual trees to pay homage to friends who have passed away, which includes a crab apple tree planted for Smith. This tree remarkably bore fruit on the day of Smith's funeral, symbolizing their lasting friendship. Dench expressed her sentiments by stating she carried a crab apple in her pocket at Smith's funeral, making the moment particularly poignant. Beyond the personal loss, Smith's death in September 2023 prompted widespread tributes from fans and fellow actors alike, acknowledging her significant contributions to the film and theatre industry over a career that spanned more than 60 years. The outpouring of grief highlighted Smith's immense talent and her memorable roles in iconic productions, including her roles in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey, cementing her legacy as a legendary performer. Several actors who worked with her recalled not only her professional excellence but also her sharp wit, humor, and the joy she brought to her collaborations. Such was her impact that Dench, who has also expressed profound feelings of grief over the loss of other friends in the industry, particularly noted how every moment shared with Smith was filled with laughter and affection. The documentary segments featuring both Dench and friend Charles Dance emphasized the unique rapport and experiences they had while working together, and Dance reflected on the joy of directing the duo in 'Ladies in Lavender', highlighting a mixture of camaraderie and professional spirit. Collectively, the BBC tribute served to resonate with viewers, reminding them of Smith's remarkable journey in acting, and Dench's heartfelt memories encapsulated not just loss but a celebration of friendship.