Sir Michael Gambon, best known for portraying Professor Albus Dumbledore in the “Harry Potter” films, has passed away, his family announced Thursday. He was 82
“We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon,” his rep, Clair Dobbs, said in a statement on behalf of his wife, Anne Miller, and son Fergus. “Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia.”
The statement concluded, “We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”
The Irish-English actor`s career spanned nearly five decades, winning four BAFTAs, two RTS Awards and an Olivier. Beginning his career in theater in Dublin, Gambon first appeared on stage in a production of “Othello” at the Gates Theatre in 1962 and was knighted for his contribution to the entertainment industry in 1998.
He is also known for portraying French detective Jules Maigret in the ITV series “Maigre” and for starring in the BBC series “The Singing Detective.”
Gambon married Miller in 1962 and they share one son. Gambon never divorced Miller, but he had another partner, set designer Philippa Hart, who was 25 years his junior, and they had two children together.