Actor Michael Gambon, best known for playing legendary Hogwarts director Albus Dumbledore in the famous Harry Potter saga, has died at the age of 82, his family confirmed. The actor was hospitalized for several days and eventually died of pneumonia.
The news came as a shock to his family, colleagues and millions of admirers around the world, as he was deeply loved and will be remembered for giving life to “the most powerful magician who ever lived”.
Gambon began his career over 60 years ago as one of the original members of the prestigious Royal National Theatre, alongside another great legend such as actor Laurence Olivier.
In addition to Albus Dobredo, the actor is also popular for his role as French-born detective Jules Maigret in the British series Maigret, which airs on the British channel ITV.
He was survived by his wife Anne and son Fergus Gambon when he died. They announced his death and the cause of the pneumonia crisis to the media.
“We are devastated to have to announce his passing,” his publicist Claire Dobbs said in a statement to the media. “We trust that your privacy will be respected at this very painful time. Thank you for all your messages of support and love.”
Over 60 years of impeccable record
The Irish actor started acting in show business at the age of 21. After training as an engineer, he realized he wasn’t cut out for the profession and that his true passion was acting. In an impeccable career spanning more than 60 years, he has won four BAFTA Television Awards as well as successful projects in radio and film.
However, his most notable project to date was bringing the mythical Albus Dumbledore to life in five of the seven films in the famous boy wizard’s saga following the death of Richard Harris , Richard Harris played him in the first two installments: Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
After the magical universe created by JK Rowling, the actor also worked on other projects, such as the role of Sergeant Godfrey in Dad’s Army or his participation in one of the most important films shot in Britain to date The King’s Speech (2010) ).