Matthew Goode, known for his role in Downton Abbey, recently shared a heartwarming story about the legendary Dame Maggie Smith, shedding light on a memorable day on the set that she fondly recalled. Maggie Smith, who graced our screens as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, was a pivotal presence throughout the series’ six seasons and the initial movies. Her performance, celebrated with three Emmy Awards, was a true highlight of the beloved franchise and will be deeply missed following her passing in September 2024.
Goode, who played Lady Mary Crawley’s husband Henry Talbot, revealed this charming anecdote during an interview with Deadline. He recounted the joyous atmosphere surrounding the filming of Mary and Henry’s wedding in season six, sharing insights into a day that left a lasting imprint on the cast.
GOODE: “It was a big racecourse day and we were filming secretly in the countryside near Oxford. We transformed our green room into a beautiful garden space courtesy of an ex-Concorde pilot. Surprisingly, a delightful bottle of rosé appeared on our table. The heat was intense, and despite initial reservations, I decided to enjoy a glass. Soon enough, laughter filled the air as the rest of the cast joined in. We ended up savoring 22 bottles of rosé throughout the day, making Maggie Smith incredibly happy.â€Â
This behind-the-scenes moment exemplifies how the close-knit Downton Abbey cast forged cherished memories together, highlighting the lighter side of filming amidst the grandeur of the series. Smith’s joyous response, declaring it one of her favorite days on set, serves as a testament to the camaraderie shared among the actors.
Maggie Smith’s Indelible Impact on Downton Abbey
Dame Maggie Smith was not only an esteemed actress but also the heart and soul of Downton Abbey. From her sharp wit to her emotional depth, she masterfully navigated the complexities of her character, often stealing the spotlight. As Violet Crawley, she provided a perfect blend of humor and gravitas, ensuring audiences remained captivated through all six seasons and the film adaptations. Her character’s poignant sendoff in the second film was bittersweet, leaving viewers to ponder how the Crawley family would continue to navigate their lives without her wisdom.
Remembering a Cinematic Legend
A true stalwart of British cinema, Maggie Smith’s legacy stretches far beyond Downton Abbey. Her roles in Harry Potter, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and Sister Act illustrate her versatility and unwavering commitment to her craft. With a presence that could light up the stage or screen, she left an indelible mark on film and theatre. As fans prepare to watch the upcoming Downton Abbey movie, the void left by Dame Maggie will be profoundly feltâ€â€not just by her fellow cast members but by all who admired her work.
As we reflect on her extraordinary contribution to entertainment, Matthew Goode’s story serves as a beautiful reminder of the joy and laughter she brought, enriching not only the world of Downton Abbey but the broader landscape of British film and television.