Farewell to the Great Gambon: Harry Potter star Sir Michael Gambon dies at 82

Sir Michael Gambon, the celebrated actor who played the role of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, has died at the age of 82, his family confirmed on Thursday. The Irish-born actor passed away peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon,” a statement issued by his publicist Clair Dobbs said, according to PA Media news agency. “We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.” Gambon was known for his extensive catalog of work across TV, film and radio, spanning six decades. He started his acting career with Laurence Olivier as one of the original members of the Royal National Theatre and went on to excel in plays by Pinter, Beckett and Ayckbourn. He won three Olivier Awards for his performances in A Chorus of Disapproval (1985), A View from the Bridge (1987), and Man of the Moment (1990).