Harry Potter fans remember Dumbledore after Sir Michael Gambon’s death as world mourns iconic actor
- Fans pay tribute to Sir Michael Gambon after he dies aged 82
- His 60-year career includes playing Dumbledore in six Harry Potter films.
- He received a knighthood in 1999 and has been nominated for 13 Olivier Awards.
Tributes to Sir Michael Gambon have been paid by Harry Potter fans around the world after the star died aged 82.
A giant of British theater and cinema, Gambon was distinguished by his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films.
After the death of Richard Harris, who played Dumbledore in the first two films, Gambon took on the role for the third film in the series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, released in 2004.
After his family revealed he died peacefully in hospital following a battle with pneumonia, Harry Potter fans posted heartfelt tributes to Gambon.
Posting a tribute to the actor on X, formerly known as Twitter, Harry Potter fan account @PotterheadPosts wrote: “Let’s raise our wands for Michael Gambon.”
Gambon was adored by young audiences for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films.
Another fan added: “Raise your wands for Sir Michael Gambon.”
A third posted: “Michael Gambon will live on in the hearts and memories of every person whose childhood he illuminated with his brilliant portrayal of Albus Dumbledore.
“You think the dead people we truly loved ever leave us? Do you think we don’t remember them more clearly in times of great difficulty?
A statement on behalf of his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus Gambon, released by publicist Clair Dobbs, said: “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon.
“A beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following pneumonia. Michel was 82 years old.
“We ask that you respect our privacy during this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”
Speaking about playing the role of Dumbledore, which he did to such mesmerizing effect, Gambon said he “didn’t really have to play anyone”.
He said: “I just put a beard on and play with it, so it’s not a big achievement. I never give in to a role – every role I play is just a variation of my own personality. I’m not a character actor at all…’
Citing Gambon’s famous speech in Layer Cake, in which he played Eddie Temple, another user posted to X: ‘You’re born, you take shit.’ You go out into the world, you take more shit. You go a little higher, you take less shit.
“Until one day you find yourself in a rarefied atmosphere and you’ve forgotten what this shit looks like. Welcome to the son of the layer cake.
“RIP Michael Gambon.”
