Sheridan Smith reveals the kind message the late Dame Maggie Smith gave her when she ‘spotted her nerves’ while filming Quartet

Sheridan Smith shared a touching message she got from the late Dame Maggie Smith during their collaboration on the 2012 comedy “Quartet.

The 44-year-old actress is now sharing insights about collaborating with the iconic actor, who tragically passed away in September of the previous year at the age of 89.

In the movie, it was Sheridan who disclosed that Dame Maggie, playing a different character, noticed Sheridan’s apprehension on set and encouraged her by saying they should support each other.

In an interview with Good Housekeeping UK, she remarked: ‘Dame Maggie Smith was simply stunning in the movie Quartet, directed by Dustin Hoffman. On our very first day, she noticed my apprehension and reassured me, saying, “Let’s band together, as we are all Smiths.”‘

Sheridan also shared the sweet gesture the Harry Potter star made when her dad passed away. 

She added: ‘When my dad passed, she sent me a beautiful card that I still cherish.’ 

The film revolves around a home for elderly musicians and their yearly event honoring Composer Giuseppe Verdi’s birthday, but chaos ensues when the flamboyant, ever-diva Dame Maggie Smith (playing Jean) – ex-wife of a resident – unexpectedly arrives.

During the shooting process, Sheridan expressed his admiration for Dame Maggie, referring to her as a ‘genius’, and added that she provided guidance, acting like a mentor to him.

She’s incredibly talented. Observing her perform, it seems unbelievable that she’s just reciting lines.

“She has been taking care of me like a protective parent. She is incredibly kind-hearted. For the premiere of Hedda Gabler, she even sent me a gift and card on opening night, called me recently, and I’ve been left speechless by her thoughtfulness.

Fans of Netflix are currently thrilled by the “outstanding” British series, Cilla, which is highly recommended to watch, even a full ten years after its initial airing on ITV.

The three-part biopic, titled Cilla, first hit screens on ITV back in 2014.

Emulating Cilla Black’s tumultuous journey from the vibrant Liverpool music scene to the pinnacle of chart success, as depicted in the original synopsis, this captivating drama is now available for streaming on the renowned platform, Netflix, for your viewing pleasure.

Cilla was widely recognized as both a renowned vocalist and TV hostess, best remembered for her popular songs “You’ve Found Your Love” and “Anyone Who Had A Heart.

The show delves into the celebrated vocalist’s significant relationships, particularly those with Bobby Willis and Brian Epstein.

Sheridan plays the titular star, alongside Aneurin Barnard, John Henshaw and others. 

In the show, Sheridan dons a sleek ginger bob – strikingly different to her longer, blonde locks. 

In a flurry of praise, fans have lauded Cilla’s portrayal by Sheridan Smith, commending her for singing all the songs flawlessly. Words can’t express the talent displayed by the entire ensemble. This performance is one you absolutely must see!

‘Brilliant. Loved this series, Smith always smashes it,’ someone else said. 

Another added: ‘Great performance by all and gives a great feel for the early 60’s in Liverpool.’

When the program initially premiered more than ten years back, it became incredibly popular, leading to a resurgence of Cilla’s songs on the music charts.

A large number of people rushed to purchase Cilla’s hit single “Anyone Who Had A Heart” from 1964, following Sheridan’s performance of it on the program in 2014.

The timeless song climbed up to 46th position on the midweek ranking and also peaked at the top of the Irish music charts.

In 2015, when she was 72 years old and had tragically passed away, Cilla appreciated the performance of Sheridan on the show and endorsed it by giving her her stamp of approval as a depiction of herself.

The resident of Liverpool shared with the Daily Mirror: ‘It feels odd to watch others reenact my life… I had a moment of concern upon learning that Sheridan portrays me, since I’ve always known her as Mrs. Biggs.’

During an interview with Rachael Bletchly from the newspaper, she mentioned: ‘I had no reason to be concerned as Sheridan is simply marvelous. I can’t find a single flaw in her performance. Yet, it’s a mystery how she managed to sing so beautifully with those dentures.’

The full interview can be read now in the September issue of Good Housekeeping UK 

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2025-07-24 04:04

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