BBC Breakfast's Charlie Stayt forced to apologise after technical glitch during Maggie Smith tribute

BBC Breakfast hosts Charlie Stayt and Nina Warhurst spoke to Lady Fiona Carnarvon about the late Dame Maggie Smith, whose death was announced on 27 September

BBC Breakfast's Charlie Stayt was forced to offer apologies after the show faced multiple technical difficulties during a segment paying homage to the late Maggie Smith.

Presenter Charlie Stayt and his colleague Nina Warhurst were speaking to Lady Fiona Carnarvon about Dame Maggie Smith, whose passing was announced on 27 September.

Maggie, admired for her roles in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey, passed away at the age of 89 in a hospital, with her death deeply felt by fans across the globe.

As the broadcast unfolded, they delved into Lady Carnarvon's fond memories of Maggie and her time at Highclere Castle, but were interrupted by technical snags that caused disruption.

At the interview's conclusion, following Nina's expression of "happy memories" to Lady Carnarvon regarding the distinguished actress, Charlie jumped in with an apology, saying: "Yeah, apologies, a little bit of fallout there on the line, there was a bit of interference", reports the Manchester Evening News.

He further explained the situation: "It wasn't you, it was us. It happens sometimes."

The sorrowful update on Maggie's condition was provided by her publicist who 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."

Adding a personal note, the statement continued: "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.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days."

The statement also contained a heartrending appeal for privacy: "We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time."

Following the announcement of Maggie's death, a widespread expression of sorrow was visible, as acquaintances, the broader public, and royalty acknowledged their deep sense of loss and highlighted the remarkable impact of her work.

Notably, the Royal Family commemorated her life and career with poignant words in their tribute: "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 off and on the stage."

Even political figures such as Sir Keir Starmer resonated with the sentiment, recognising Dame Maggie as "a true national treasure whose work will be cherished for generations to come". The Prime Minister reflected on her legacy, asserting: "[Maggie] introduced us to new worlds with the countless stories she acted over her long career."

Dame Maggie Smith's depiction of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter franchise has become an iconic part of her illustrious career. Despite her character's tough exterior towards Hogwarts' pupils, she clearly nurtured a deep-seated fondness for each of them.

Daniel Radcliffe, Harry himself, lauded Dame Maggie with warm words: "She was a fierce intellect, had a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny.

"I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her, and to spend time around her on set. The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her. Thank you Maggie."

Emma Watson, who brought Hermione Granger to life, confessed that the full gravity of acting alongside such a distinguished colleague didn't hit her until she had matured within the industry.

BBC Breakfast airs weekdays from 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

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