Michael Gambon, the Irish actor who played Albus Dumbledore in the last six Harry Potter films, died on September 28, 2023, at the age of 82. His death was confirmed by his family, who said that he died peacefully in his sleep after a short illness.
Gambon was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1940. He began his acting career in the early 1960s, appearing in a number of British television shows. He made his film debut in 1965 in the film Othello.
Gambon went on to have a successful career in both film and television. He appeared in a number of notable films, including The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989), The Insider (1999), and Gosford Park (2001). He also won a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film The Last King of Scotland (2006).
Gambon was cast as Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films in 2003, following the death of Richard Harris, who played the character in the first two films. Gambon played the role in the last six films in the franchise, from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004) to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (2011).
Gambon’s performance as Dumbledore was widely praised by critics and fans alike. He brought a new depth and complexity to the role, and his portrayal of the wise and powerful wizard is considered to be one of the best in the franchise.
In addition to his work in the Harry Potter films, Gambon also appeared in a number of other notable films and television shows in his later career. He played Pope Julius II in the television series The Borgias (2011-2013), and he also appeared in the films Cloud Atlas (2012), Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014), and Paddington (2014).
Gambon’s death is a great loss to the world of acting. He was a talented and versatile actor who appeared in a wide range of films and television shows over the course of his career. He will be best remembered for his iconic role as Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films, but he also left a lasting legacy with his many other memorable performances.
Tributes to Michael Gambon
Following Gambon’s death, many of his former colleagues and collaborators paid tribute to him on social media.
Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter in the Harry Potter films, wrote on Twitter: “Michael Gambon was a giant of stage and screen and a wonderful man. He was the perfect Dumbledore, and I was incredibly fortunate to have known him and worked with him. He will be deeply missed.”
Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, also wrote a tribute to Gambon on Twitter, saying: “Michael Gambon was a truly great actor and a wonderful human being. He was the perfect Dumbledore, and I will never forget his kindness and support. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Gambon’s death is a sad loss for the world of acting, but his legacy will live on through his many memorable performances.