Michael Gambon, beloved actor who played Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter,' dead at 82
- "Harry Potter" actor Michael Gambon has died at the age of 82.
- He died following a bout of pneumonia, his family said in a statement.
The actor Michael Gambon, best known for playing Professor Albus Dumbledore in the "Harry Potter" franchise, has died at the age of 82, per multiple reports.
"We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon," the actor's family said in a statement issued to ITV News and the Associated Press.
"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," the statement continued.
"We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love."
The acclaimed English-Irish actor had a career that spanned six decades. He was one of the original members of the acclaimed Royal National Theatre alongside fellow acting legend Laurence Olivier.
Starring in Olivier's big screen version of "Othello" in 1965 marked Gambon's movie debut. He went on to become an acclaimed character actor starring in everything from Barry Levinson's "Toys" opposite Robin Williams in 1992, the critical darling "The Insider" in 1999, Robert Altman's "Gosford Park" in 2001, and a perfect gangster in 2004's "Layer Cake" opposite Daniel Craig.
But for most, Gambon will be remembered for taking the role of Dumbledore following the death of Richard Harris in 2002. He played the role beginning with 2004's "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban."
Over his career, Gambon won two SAG awards and four BAFTAs. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999.