Renowned British-Irish actor Michael Gambon, famous for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in six out of eight Harry Potter films, has passed away at the age of 82, as confirmed by his family on Thursday.
Throughout his extensive and diverse acting career spanning television, film, radio, and theatre, Gambon earned four television BAFTA awards and an Olivier award. His most cherished role was that of the headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter series.
In a statement issued on behalf of his family, they expressed their deep sorrow, stating, “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon.”
Michael Gambon, a beloved husband and father, peacefully passed away in a hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus by his side, following an illness related to pneumonia.
Hailing from Ireland, Gambon initially launched his illustrious acting career in the theater, making his stage debut in the play “Othello” at the Gates Theatre in Dublin in 1962.
He gained recognition in the UK for his role as a French detective in the ITV series “Maigret” and his portrayal of Philip Marlow in screenwriter Dennis Potter’s “The Singing Detective” in 1986.
He delivered a remarkable performance in the BBC’s 2015 adaptation of JK Rowling’s “The Casual Vacancy.”
His extensive theater credits include appearances in Alan Ayckbourn’s “The Norman Conquests,” “The Life Of Galileo,” and National Theatre productions directed by Nicholas Hytner, notably “Henry IV.”
