Many women can only dream of being kissed by Leonardo DiCaprio, but at the BAFTA Awards earlier this month, Dame Maggie Smith had the honour. Breaking her silence about that kiss which was caught on camera, the 81-year-old admitted it was a "real thrill".
"He did indeed [give me a big kiss]," Maggie told NPR during a radio interview. "That was a thrill for me. A real thrill because I think he's a terrific actor."
The star of The Lady in the Van went on to say that she is a big fan of Leo, who has received five Oscar nominations in the past. The first was in 1994 when Leo was recognised for his supporting role in What's Eating Gilbert Grape.
Maggie Smith and Leonardo DiCaprio were caught on the KissCam at the BAFTAs
"I've been rooting and voting for him since Gilbert Grape," said Maggie. "I thought he was so amazing in that one. He was a young man, really very young boy, wasn't he?"
Maggie happened to be sitting in front of the dapper American star at the BAFTA Awards on 14 February. Given the Valentine's Day timing of the ceremony, guests were subjected to a "KissCam" game.
With the camera focused on him, Leo jumped out of his seat and gave Dame Maggie a kiss on the cheek, leaving the audience in hysterics.
© Photo: Getty Images"I've been rooting and voting for him since Gilbert Grape," said Maggie
Leo, who will find out if he has won his first ever Oscar on Sunday night, had a second moment in the spotlight when he was crowned the Best Actor. Going up on stage to accept his BAFTA, the 41-year-old gave an emotional speech, thanking one particularly special lady for her support.
"There's one person I have to thank," said Leo. "I would not be standing up here if it weren't for this person. I didn't grow up in a life of privilege.
© Photo: Getty ImagesLeonardo DiCaprio will find out if he has won the Oscar on Sunday
"I grew up in a very rough neighbourhood in East Los Angeles and this woman drove me for three hours a day to a different school to show me a different opportunity. It is her birthday today. So Mum, happy birthday. I love you very much."
