Fans of the "Harry Potter" franchise were absolutely devastated this morning to wake up to the news that Michael Gambon, who played Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the series, has passed away.
He was 82 years old.
The family announced Gambons' death early Thursday morning.
According to the report, he died after a bout with Pneumonia.
His publicist stated:
"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."
Gambon is best known for his role in the "Harry Potter" series, but this man has had an amazing career.
Gambon has 172 acting credits on his resume, which is astonishing in and of itself, but the fact he was part of so many iconic films and true blockbusters is what sets him apart from most.
Just think about the fact that his very first role was in 1965's "Othello."
After "Othello," Gambon primarily concentrated on TV shows, such as "Much Ado About Nothing," "Love Story," "Six Days of Justice," and "Orson Welles' Great Mysteries," to name a few.
By the late 1980s, we started to see him in more movies than TV, starring in "Mobsters," "Toys," and "Mary Reilly."
In 1999, he starred opposite Johnny Depp in "Sleepy Hollow," and then, of course, he started his epic run in the "Harry Potter" franchise playing Albus Dumbledore.
At this point, he was a true A-lister, also landing roles in "The Book of Eli," "The King's Speech," "Gosford Park," and "Kingsman: The Golden Circle."
One of his last credited roles was in 2019's "Judy."
Gambon's mantel has very little room left on it with the number of awards he has won over his career, including two Screen Actors Guild Awards for "Gosford Park" and "The King's Speech."
Gambon was an amazing actor, but "Harry Potter" is far down my list of movies for which he will be remembered.
That franchise was monstrous, obviously, but I think I will remember him for "The King's Speech," "Gosford Park," "Doctor Who," and "The Omen" most of all.
This man could send a chill right up your spine in sci-fi and horror roles, which is how I will remember him.
You entertained us for five decades of your life, and we will forever be thankful for that.
