Sir Michael Gambon, best known for playing the character of Professor Albus Dumbledore in the “Harry Potter” films, has died. He was 82.
A statement on behalf of his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus, issued by publicist Claire Dobbs said, “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon.”
“Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82. We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”
Tributes poured in for the Irish actor as news of his death shocked and saddened his fans all over the world. Social media users mourned his passing on X (formerly Twitter) and called him a great actor. Some people even shared his famous quotes from the “Harry Potter” franchise.
“RIP Michael Gambon. Brilliant actor and grandfather of wizardry,” a user wrote.
Another user commented, “’While we may come from different places and speak in different tongues, our hearts beat as one.’ RIP Michael Gambon another legend taken, but their legacy lives on.”
“Actor Michael Gambon has died of pneumonia at age 82. I was first introduced to him as the nasty crime boss, Albert Spica in The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover. He was a terrific actor. RIP Sir Michael,” a third user remarked.
Take a look at some other reactions here:
Gambon was born on October 19, 1940 in Dublin, Ireland and was raised in London, as per Associated Press. He originally trained as an engineer. He is the recipient of three Olivier Awards and two Screen Actor Guild Awards. He also received four British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards for his work in television. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his service in drama in 1998.
He got his first break in 1963, with a minor role in “Hamlet,” the National Theatre Company’s opening production, under the directorship of the legendary Laurence Olivier.
Gambon, is best known for playing the role of Hogwarts’ headmaster since the third installment of JK Rowling’s franchise, “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” after his predecessor Richard Harris. He once admitted that he hadn't read any of Rowling's novels, saying that it was safer to follow the script rather than be too influenced by the books.
The actor retired from the stage in 2015 after struggling to remember his lines in front of an audience due to his advancing age, according to Associated Press. “It’s a horrible thing to admit, but I can’t do it. It breaks my heart," he told Sunday Times Magazine.
He is also known for playing French detective Maigret in Fantastic Mr Fox and starring in The Singing Detective.
(With inputs from AP)
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