Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter Films Dies
Actor Michael Gambon, who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films, has died. Gambon died at the age of 82 after suffering from pneumonia. This is known from a statement issued on behalf of his family on Thursday (28/9/2023), as reported by the PA Media news agency.
"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Sir Michael Gambon," said a statement released by his publicist Clair Dobbs, according to the PA.
"Beloved husband and father Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus by his side, after contracting pneumonia. Michael is 82 years old."
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| Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe described Sir Michael as one of the most "brilliant, effortless" actors (Photo: Getty Images) |
"We ask the public to respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love."
Gambon Becomes Dumbledore's Hogwarts Headmaster in the Harry Potter film series
Michael Gambon is known for his extensive work in TV, film, and radio, with another major role as a psoriasis detective in the hit 1980s series The Singing Detective.
One of the leading theatre actors of his generation, Michael Gambon was born in Cabra, Dublin, but moved to London as a child. He grew up in an Irish immigrant community in Camden and his first job was as a toolmaker's apprentice. He developed a love for antique guns, clocks, and classic cars that lasted a lifetime.
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"I've always been an obsessive collector of everything," he told a Guardian interviewer in 2004.
"Richard Briers collects stamps. I collect cars and weapons, which are much more expensive, and much harder to store."
In 1990 he was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Eight years later he was made a Knight Bachelor for his services to drama.
But when he was Dumbledore's headmistress in the Harry Potter film series, Michael Gambon is perhaps best remembered, for a role he took on after Richard Harris died in 2002. In all, Michael Gambon played Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films.
James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley in the Harry Potter film franchise, posted a tribute to Michael Gambon on X, formerly known as Twitter.
"Very sad to hear about the passing of Michael Gambon. He, on and off camera, is a legend," Phelps wrote.
"He's always been very funny and very happy to share the knowledge he has," Phelps added, detailing fond memories he had of working with the veteran actor between the shots of the sixth Harry Potter film.
During his career, Michael Gambon won several Best Actor awards at the British Academy Television Awards (BAFTAs) and was nominated for two Emmy awards.