Legendary actor Sir Michael Gambon has died aged 82, according to his family.
The Dublin, Ireland born star appeared in any number of theater productions, TV shows, and films over the years, and his five-decade career saw him win four Baftas.
Gambon is perhaps most famous for his portrayal of Professor Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, though he also appeared in such flicks as Sleepy Hollow, Layer Cake, The Book of Eli, and The King’s Speech.
The actor’s widow, Lady Gambon, and son, Fergus, stated that their “beloved husband and father” had died peacefully, surrounded by his family after suffering from pneumonia.
“Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife, Anne, and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia,” their statement said.
“We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”
As per reports, Gambon never received any formal training at drama school after leaving school at 15, and instead took the route of learning on the job via amateur stage productions. As a teenager he began work as a set builder, before ultimately ending up on stage at the Unity theatre and the Tower theatre in London.
Gambon later lied about his experience to help himself land a small role in Othello in Dublin, Ireland, while he got his West End debut as an understudy aged 22.
Despite his lack of proper training and experience, Gambon excelled over the years, going from strength to strength and eventually earning the utmost respect of his peers
After appearing in a number of Samuel Beckett plays, Gambon decided to retire from stage work due to having difficult remembering his lines. He stated in 2014: “I feel sad about it. I love the theatre but I can’t see myself playing massive parts again.”
Rest in peace, Sir Michael Gambon! You will be greatly missed.
