Sir Michael Gambon, beloved British actor of the stage and screen who was best known globally as the second actor to play Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter movies, has died at the age of 82, his family has confirmed. Gambon is said to have ed away peacefully in his sleep after suffering from pneumonia.
Gambon’s family announced the sad news, via publicist Clair Dobbs, this Thursday, Sep. 28:
“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. Michael was 82. We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of and love.”
Born Oct. 19, 1940, Gambon started out his career already in rarefied company, being one of the original of the Royal National Theatre alongside Sir Laurence Olivier. Over the course of a career spanning 60 years, he found himself decorated with numerous accolades, including four BAFTA awards, three Olivier Awards, and two SAG Awards. In 1999, he was awarded a knighthood by the late Queen Elizabeth II for his services to drama.
Although his credits include such acclaimed films and TV series as The Singing Detective, Gosford Park, The King’s Speech, and his collaborations with director Wes Anderson, there’s little doubt that generations of viewers around the world know Gambon best as Professor Dumbledore, the heaster of Hogwarts, in the Harry Potter films. Following a younger Albus in the Fantastic Beasts prequels.
Gambon is survived by his wife, mathematician Anne Miller, now Lady Gambon, their son Fergus, and two other children from another relationship. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.
Published: Sep 28, 2023 07:16 am