Actor Sir Michael Gambon, renowned for his iconic portrayal of the benevolent wizard Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series, has peacefully passed away at the age of 82, as confirmed by his family.
A statement released on behalf of his wife, Lady Anne Gambon, and son Fergus Gambon, expressed their profound grief, stating, “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. Michael, a beloved husband and father, peacefully passed away in the hospital, with his wife Anne and son Fergus by his side, following a battle with pneumonia.”
Gambon’s portrayal of the magical character graced six out of the eight films in the franchise, and his illustrious career spanned five decades, during which he earned four TV Baftas.
In addition to his role in the world of wizardry, Gambon was known for his portrayal of French detective Jules Maigret in ITV’s Maigret and his appearance in the BBC’s The Singing Detective.
Author of the Harry Potter series, JK Rowling, paid heartfelt tribute to Gambon, recalling their initial encounter in 1982, long before she penned the saga in which he would become an integral part. She shared, “I’ve just heard the awful news about Michael Gambon. The first time I ever laid eyes on him was in King Lear, in 1982, and if you’d told me then that this brilliant actor would appear in anything I’d written, I’d have thought you were insane. Michael was a wonderful man in addition to being an outstanding actor, and I absolutely loved working with him, not only on Potter but also The Casual Vacancy. My deepest condolences go to Michael’s family and everyone who loved him.”