LONDON: British-Irish actor Sir Michael Gambon, known for playing the role of Professor Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series, has died at the age of 82, Western media reported on Thursday.
The statement issued on behalf of his wife Lady Anne Gambon and his son Fergus said the family was devastated to announce the loss.
Gambon died peacefully in hospital
It added that the late actor died peacefully in a hospital in the presence of his wife and son after developing complications from pneumonia.
Gambon was awarded four U.K. television BAFTA awards during his years-long career. He acted on television, movies, radio, and even on the stage.
He started his career as one of the original members of Laurence Olivier’s National Theatre acting company in London. He won three Olivier awards for performances in National Theatre productions.
He played the role of the headmaster of the Hogwarts School for witches and wizards in the Harry Potter series making him a known face to younger generations. He got the role after actor Richard Harris died in 2002 after portraying Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter movies.
He was knighted for his services to the entertainment industry in 1998.
