Harry Potter Stars Remember 'Dumbledore' Michael Gambon

Renowned stage and screen actor Michael Gambon, best known for his portrayal of Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series, passed away at the age of 82, as reported by the BBC on September 28. He succumbed to pneumonia while in the hospital, as confirmed by his family.

His wife, Lady Gambon, and son, Fergus Gambon, issued a statement expressing their devastation at the loss of Michael. They mentioned that he passed peacefully in the presence of his wife and son, following a battle with pneumonia. Michael was 82 at the time of his passing.

The family requested privacy during this difficult period and expressed their gratitude for the messages of support and love they have received.

Actor Michael Gambon, Harry Potter's 'Dumbledore', Dies At 82

Michael Gambon, known for his iconic role as Professor Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, enjoyed a multifaceted career spanning television, film, theatre, and radio over five decades. He was the recipient of four Bafta awards. Michael gained recognition for his portrayal of Philip Marlow in Dennis Potter's The Singing Detective on the BBC.

In 1998, Michael Gambon received a knighthood in recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry.

Daniel Radcliffe, who played the titular role in the Harry Potter series of films, remembered the late actor. In a statement to Variety,  Radcliffe wrote, "With the loss of Michael Gambon the world just became considerably less fun." He added, "Michael Gambon was one of the most brilliant, effortless actors I've ever had the privilege of working with, but despite his immense talent, the thing I will remember most about him is how much fun he had doing his job. He was silly, irreverent and hilarious."

 Watson, who starred as Hermione Granger remembered Gambon as a kind man. "You never took it too seriously but somehow delivered the most serious moments with all the gravitas. Thank you for showing us what it looks like to wear greatness lightly. We will miss you," she shared on her Instagram Story. 

His theatrical journey commenced in 1962 with his debut appearance in a production of Othello at Dublin's Gates Theatre. Gambon achieved recognition in the world of arthouse cinema with his role in Peter Greenaway's The Cook, the Thief, His Wife, and Her Lover (1989). Subsequently, he transitioned to prominent roles in major films such as Sleepy Hollow, The Insider, and Gosford Park. Later on, he donned a flowing beard and tassel hat to portray Professor Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series, taking over the character following Richard Harris's passing in 2002.

His rich and distinctive voice graced numerous films, including his portrayal of Uncle Pastuzo in both Paddington movies and his narration in the Coen brothers' Hail, Caesar! His illustrious theatre career encompassed notable roles in Alan Ayckbourn's The Norman Conquests, The Life of Galileo, and Nicholas Hytner's National Theatre production of Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2.

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