Michael Gambon, Harry Potter's Dumbledore, dies at 82

British-Irish actor Michael Gambon, renowned for his portrayal of Professor Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series, passed away at the age of 82 on Thursday, September 28.

The actor had been battling pneumonia leading up to his demise.

Gambon was honored as a Commander of the British Empire in 1992 and later knighted in 1998 for his contributions to the world of drama.

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He peacefully passed away in a hospital, as reported by PA Media, citing a family statement. He is survived by his wife and son.

Gambon gained immense acclaim for his depiction of Professor Dumbledore, the head of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, in the film adaptations of JK Rowling's Harry Potter series.

Gambon portrayed Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films before the character's pivotal moment in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."

Michael Gambon, the actor

In 1962, Gambon auditioned for the esteemed Shakespearean actor Olivier, who subsequently appointed him as one of the founding members of the National Theatre at the Old Vic, according to Reuters.

He also garnered three Olivier Awards and two Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of ensemble casts for his roles in "Gosford Park" (2001) and "The King's Speech."

Gambon retired from the stage in 2015 due to long-term memory issues but continued to appear on screen until 2019.