Harry Potter star dies , leaving fans devastated
The Harry Potter community is in mourning today.
Renowned actor Michael Gambon, famous for his portrayal of headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series, has sadly passed away at the age of 82.
On Thursday, his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus Gambon issued a statement confirming the sad news. “Beloved husband and father, Michael, peacefully passed away in the hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82.”
The statement went on to say, “We ask that you respect our privacy during this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”
Sir Michael Gambon’s portrayal of Albus Dumbledore left an indelible mark on the Harry Potter franchise and endeared him to fans around the world.
Although he was born in Dublin, Ireland, Michael Gambon spent his formative years in London, England, as his family moved there when he was six years old. He initially worked as a toolmaker before discovering his true passion for acting.
In 1962, he made his professional stage debut, quickly establishing himself as a talented and versatile actor.
Many fans discovered him later in life when Gambon gained stardom for taking on the role of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series from 2004 to 2011, succeeding the late Richard Harris.
Regarding his approach to the role, Gambon once said in 2007, “I don’t have to play anyone really. I just stick on a beard and play me, so it’s no great feat. I never ease into a role — every part I play is just a variant of my own personality. I’m not really a character actor at all.”
In addition to his iconic role as Dumbledore, Gambon appeared in a wide range of films, including “Gosford Park,” “The Insider,” “The King’s Speech,” and “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.” He earned four TV Baftas and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his outstanding contributions to drama. Beyond his acting career, Gambon was also known as a passionate collector and a certified private pilot.
According to his publicist, Michael Gambon passed away peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by his wife Anne and son Fergus, after battling pneumonia.
