Legendary actorSir Michael Gambon, the man who would become known to millions as Dumbledore in the Harry Potter franchise, has sadly died at the age of 82. The Irish actor, whose illustrious career lasted over six decades and included roles on stage and screen, was reported to have passed away peacefully following a bout of pneumonia.
In a statement issued by Gambon’s publicist Clair Dobbs on behalf of his wife, Lady Gambon, and their son, Fergus, read:
“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.”
Throughout his career, Gambon has created many memorable characters, having appeared in over 170 TV and movie productions as an actor. His most recent, and final roles were as Henry Tyson in the TV series Fortitude, and in the movies Judy and Cordelia, all of which premiered in 2019. Having gained many accolades for his performances, some of Gambon’s greatest roles have included The King’s Speech, Quartet, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou and his movie debut in Othello in 1965. On TV, he starred in The Singing Detective, Longitude, Cranford and the J.K. Rowling created The Casual Vacancy.
However, to many, his best known role wasthat of Albus Dumbledorein theHarry Potterfranchise. Having taken over the role following the death of Richard Harris, Gambon played the Hogwarts headmaster over six movies between 2004 and 2011. It was from this role that many of the social media reactions to his death were related, probably not surprising considering the character’s place in pop culture.
Related:Michael Gambon’s Best Performances, Ranked
Tributes Have Been Paid To Michael Gambon Online
As with the sad death of any prominent and much-loved star of stage and screen, the actor was mourned and praised across many social media sites, with both fans and other stars paying their own personal tributes to the actor.
We join his fans and family in in mourning the loss of an actor whose work transcended generations, and someone who certainly earned his place as one of the greats of his craft. RIP.
