Sir Michael Gambon, who played Dumbledore in the “Harry Potter” franchise, died at the age of 82, his family announced Tuesday.
“We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon,” his rep., Clair Dobbs, said in a statement shared by PageSix. “Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”
Gambon was born in Dublin, Ireland, and started his career in the National Theatre while Laurence Olivier was the institution’s Artistic Director, according to his IMDB. He went on to skyrocketing fame on stage and screen, but shied away from interviews. He apparently once admitted to lying during interviews to make them more interesting for the viewer. (RELATED: ‘Harry Potter’ Actor Robbie Coltrane Dead At 72)
Aside from playing the headmaster of Hogwarts School in the “Harry Potter” movie franchise, Gambon is beloved in Britain for his appearance on hit show “Top Gear.” He managed to get part of the show’s test road track named after him as he managed to take a corner while only on two wheels.
He earned more than 170 credits to his name throughout his career, as well as being knighted for his services to the dramatic arts in 1998 under Queen Elizabeth II, The Associated Press noted.
He leaves behind three children.