British thespian Michael Gambon, best known for playing the beloved headmaster Dumbledore in ‘Harry Potter’ movies has passed away at the age of 82, BBC has reported.
In a statement released to the press, the actor’s widow Lady Gambon, and son Fergus, said the actor suffered from a bout of pneumonia, and passed away with family members next to him at a local hospital.
Gambon was best recognised for his performance in six of he eight Harry Potter films, where he played headmaster Albus Dumbledore, a mantle he took up after the death of veteran actor Richard Harris in 2003.
Gambon was recognised as ‘The Great Gambon’ in acting circles. He recieved an Emmy nomination in 2010 for his performance in Jane Austen’s ‘Emma’ as well as a Tony nomination in 2010 for his role in David Hare’s paly ‘Skylight’.
Gambon was knighted for his services to the entertainment industry in 1998.
Harry Potter stars have expressed grief on social media at the actor’s passing. James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley in the fantasy franchise released a statement, sending prayers to the actor’s family.
Very sorry to hear about the passing of Michael Gambon. He was, on and off the camera, a legend. Just a little memory of Michael pic.twitter.com/4M6E6inWMy
— James Phelps (@James_Phelps) September 28, 2023
Several Twitter users mourned the loss of the actor by sharing some profound quotes said by Albus Dumbledore in the movies.
All Harry Potter fans right now watching news of Sir Michael Gambon who played the role of Albus Dumbledore passing away
— Vishal Verma (@VishalVerma_9) September 28, 2023
*It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities." – Dumbledore, Rest in peace!#Dumbledore #HarryPotter pic.twitter.com/yzYLQ0cPDS
That scene 😔🕯️#HarryPotter
— HeroicGamerBoy (@HeroicGamerboy) September 28, 2023
"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, when one only remembers to turn on the light."
Rest in peace, Sir Michael Gambon. 😔🥀 pic.twitter.com/B7fzVSbg7s
Throwback to the most iconic fight scene in Harry Potter between Dumbledore and Voldemort…Rip Michael Gambon
— Jide (@Nisandrolopez) September 28, 2023
pic.twitter.com/bRGdBpim55
