Michael Gambon (1940-2023) is dead. From the third part of the “Harry Potter” film series onwards, the Irish-British actor played the school principal Albus Dumbledore between 2004 and 2011. A number of “Harry Potter” stars mourn their colleague on social media.
Ron Weasley actor Rupert Grint (35) wrote on Instagram about a picture of Gambon as Dumbledore: “He brought so much warmth and mischief to the set every day. He captivated me as a child and became personal for me Role model when it came to finding the fun and eccentricity in life. All my love goes to his family.”
“He was a legend, in front of and behind the camera,” wrote James Phelps (37), who played Fred Weasley, in his Instagram post, in which he also shared an anecdote from filming with Gambon.
Ginny Weasley actress Bonnie Wright, 32, who became a mother on September 19, commented on a film photo of Dumbledore: “I was always impressed by Michael’s presence and performance. His deep voice vibrated through the Great Hall between scenes. “He was Dumbledore through and through, a warm-hearted and leading figure. Rest in peace, Michael.”
Jason Isaacs, 60, the actor behind Lucius Malfoy, explained in a message to X that Gambon taught him that acting can be “complex, vulnerable and deeply human.” “The greatest joy of the Potter films was that he knew my name and shared his fearless, cheeky sense of humor with me.”
“Harry Potter” creator J.K. Rowling (58) spoke up and wrote to X: “I just heard the terrible news about Michael Gambon.” She first saw him in “King Lear” in 1982 “and if someone had told me back then that this brilliant actor would appear in something I had written, I would have thought they were crazy.” Gambon was not only an excellent actor, but also a wonderful person and I really enjoyed working with him, not only on Potter but also on ‘Sudden Death’. My deepest condolences go out to Michael’s family and everyone who loved him have.”
A statement from publicist Clair Dobbs on behalf of his wife and son Fergus said: “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon.” Her “beloved husband and father” died peacefully in hospital after suffering from pneumonia with his wife Anne and son at his side.
Gambon was also seen in the films “Sleepy Hollow – Heads Will Roll” (1999) and “Gosford Park” (2001), among others. The actor’s career spanned a total of 50 years, during which he appeared in the theater, film and TV.
