28-9-2023 (LONDON) The iconic British-Irish actor, Sir Michael Gambon, renowned for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, has passed away at the age of 82. His family made the announcement on Thursday.
Gambon’s illustrious acting career spanned several decades and encompassed various mediums, including television, film, radio, and theatre. His achievements were underscored by four television BAFTAs and an Olivier award. However, he is perhaps best known and beloved for his portrayal of the venerable headmaster of the wizarding school Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.
In a statement issued on behalf of his family, it was conveyed, “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.”
Born in Ireland, Gambon embarked on his remarkable acting journey in the world of theatre, making his first appearance on stage in a production of 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 for his portrayal of Philip Marlow in Dennis Potter’s “The Singing Detective” in 1986.
Gambon delivered a memorable performance in the 2015 BBC adaptation of JK Rowling’s “The Casual Vacancy.” His theatre credits included appearances in Alan Ayckbourn’s “The Norman Conquests,” “The Life Of Galileo,” and Nicholas Hytner’s National Theatre productions of “Henry IV.” In film, he featured in period dramas such as “The King’s Speech” and “Gosford Park.”
However, it was his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in the immensely popular Harry Potter film series that catapulted him to global acclaim, commencing with “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” in 1997.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry, Gambon was knighted in 1998.
Following the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from all corners. Former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson expressed his sadness on social media, fondly recalling Gambon as a “tremendous guest” who had a corner named after him on the BBC show’s racetrack. He added, “He was hugely amusing, and such a tremendous guest, we even named a corner after him.”
