Michael Gambon, actor who played Dumbledore in six ‘Harry Potter’ films, dies at 82
Written by ABC Audio. All rights reserved. on September 29, 2023
Michael Gambon, the Irish actor who played Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, has died at 82.
“We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon,” a statement from the award-winning actor’s family said. “Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia.”
The statement continued, “We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”
Gambon succeeded the late Richard Harris in the role of the charming wizard headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry after the latter passed away just before the opening of 2002’s Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Gambon’s run as Dumbledore began with 2004’s Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
The stage and screen veteran was also famous for portraying dogged French detective Jules Maigret in the ITV series Maigret — a role he incidentally also succeeded Harris in playing.
Over the years, the BAFTA-winning actor appeared in dozens of films, including Gosford Park, The King’s Speech and the second Kingsman movie. He also lent his famous voice to Uncle Pastuzo in 2014’s Paddington and its 2017 sequel.
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