Daniel Radcliffe reflects on working with Michael Gambon in new interview

Wands rose across the world as Harry Potter fans mourned the loss of British thespian Michael Gambon, that’s Professor Albus Dumbledore for muggles, in the Harry Potter films. Several fans shared some of their favorite dialogues from the books and movies, and several Harry Potter actors, including the main lead Daniel Radcliffe himself- spoke about their experiences of working with the late actor.

Speaking during an interview with Variety’s Business of Broadway Breakfast on Sunday, he spoke about Gambon’s approach to acting:

“The wonderful thing about Michael is that he wasn’t an actor you talked about acting with,” said the ‘Kill Your Darlings’ actor. “His true passion was restoring 19th-century Italian duelling pistols.”

“He knows he’s at his best when he’s at his most playful. His ability to switch on was second to none.”

Daniel spoke about how he learned the craft of acting from “watching the way Richard approaches theatre” which he described as “a process of constant and relentless refinement. You’re never done. Your last show should be your best.”

Writer of the Harry Potter books, J.K Rowling, also released a statement sending condolences on Gambon’s passing, recalling how grew to admire the veteran actor during his 1982 performance of ‘King Lear’:

“I’ve just heard the awful news about Michael Gambon. The first time I ever laid eyes on him was in King Lear, in 1982, and if you’d told me then that brilliant actor would appear in anything I’d written, I’d have thought you were insane. Michael was a wonderful man in additional to being an outstanding actor, and I absolutely loved working with him, not only on Potter but also The Casual Vacancy. My deepest condolences go to Michael’s family and everyone who loved him.”

Other stars like Rupert Grint, who played Ron Weasley, shared a picture of Albus Dumbledore on his Instagram page and in the caption he wrote:
“So sad to hear about Michael. He brought so much warmth and mischief to every day on set. He captivated me as a kid and became a personal role model of mine for finding the fun and eccentricities in life. Sending all my love to his family.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rupert Grint (@rupertgrint)

Feminist activist and actor Emma Watson who played Hermoine in the movies shared a picture of the actor on her Instagram stories and wrote in the caption:
“You never took it too seriously but somehow delivered the most serious moments with all the gravitas. Thankyou for showing what it’s like to wear greatness lightly. We will miss you.”