Prominent figures from the Harry Potter franchise have come together to honor the late, revered actor, Michael Gambon, renowned for his portrayal of Dumbledore. Gambon passed away peacefully at the age of 82, a statement from his family confirmed on Thursday, 28th September.

Representing his wife and son, publicist Clair Dobbs conveyed the family’s sentiments: “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82. We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”

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With a career spanning over six decades, Sir Michael, a recipient of numerous accolades including two Screen Actors Guild Awards, three Olivier Awards, and four BAFTAs, etched his mark on both stage and screen. His embodiment of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films remains an enduring legacy.

Apart from his iconic role, Sir Michael portrayed French detective Jules Maigret in the ITV series, Maigret, and graced the BBC series, The Singing Detective.

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Condolences and tributes have inundated social media, reflecting the profound impact of his passing. Jason Isaacs, known for his role as Lucius Malfoy, took to Twitter to express, “Magnificent Michael Gambon has died. I learned what acting could be from Michael in The Singing Detective – complex, vulnerable and utterly human.” He further shared a cherished memory from their time on set, underscoring Gambon’s fearless and spirited nature.

James Phelps, who embodied Fred Weasley, echoed sentiments of Gambon’s legendary presence both on and off-screen. He remarked, “Very sorry to hear about the passing of Michael Gambon. He was, on and off the camera, a legend.”

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Numerous fellow actors and celebrities joined in commemorating Gambon’s wit, humor, and unparalleled talent. Each tribute resounded with admiration for a man who left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His loss is felt not only by those who knew him personally but by a global audience touched by his artistry.

Fiona Shaw, renowned for her portrayal of Petunia Dursley in the Harry Potter series, affectionately characterized Sir Michael as a ‘masterful enigma’ and marveled at his ability to transcend boundaries.

‘He was not only an accomplished actor, but also an artisan of sorts; he could fashion guns. He always claimed he could outsmart the V&A, convincing them that his creations were authentic 18th-century firearms,’ she revealed during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s The World at One.

‘In my recollections, he emerges as a cunning and extraordinarily gifted enigma. When it came to performance, he was unparalleled, possessing an unparalleled range.’

‘He navigated his career with astonishing versatility, never tethered by preconceptions, simply reveling in the act of playing,’ she continued.

Reflecting on their collaboration in the Harry Potter series, she noted, ‘He succeeded Richard Harris, and naturally, he adopted some of Harris’s mannerisms, paying tribute to the recently departed actor with a subtle hint of Irish lilt.’