Veteran actor sir Michael Gambon died "peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia," according to a statement issued on behalf of his family. He was 82 years old.
The Dublin-born thespian was recognized for his impressive work across television, film, and radio, but is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, beginning with Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. It was a role he took up following the death of sir Richard Harris in 2002.
Jared Harris—the son of original Dumbledore actor Richard Harris—called Michael a "brilliant actor" via X (formerly Twitter). "I saw him on stage several times, and he lives unforgettably in my memory,” the actor shared. "He took over Dumbledore from my father, which was fitting as he overtook Brando as my father’s favourite actor."
Here are 8 of Michael Gambon's Harry Potter co-stars who took to social media to express their condolences:
1. Daniel Radcliffe
Daniel Radcliffe, who played the titular character, called Michael "one of the most brilliant, effortless actors I’ve ever had the privilege of working with."
"Despite his immense talent, the thing I will remember most about him is how much fun he had doing his job," Daniel revealed in his statement to Variety. "I’m so sad to hear he has passed, but I am so grateful for the fact that I am one of the lucky people who got to work with him."
2. Rupert Grint
Rupert Grint, who played Ron Weasley, wrote on Instagram: "So sad to hear about Michael. He brought so much warmth and mischief to every day on set. He captivated me as a kid and became a personal role model of mine for finding the fun and eccentricities in life. Sending all my love to his family."
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3. Emma Watson
Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, wrote a loving tribute on Instagram Stories. "Kind kind kind Michael Gambon. You never took it too seriously but somehow delivered the most serious moments with all the gravitas. Thank you for showing us what it looks like to wear greatness lightly. We will miss you. Xx."
4. Jason Isaacs
Jason Isaacs, who played Lucius Malfoy in the series, took to X to share his thoughts on the late actor: "Magnificent Michael Gambon has died. I learned what acting could be from Michael in The Singing Detective - complex, vulnerable and utterly human. The greatest thrill of being in the Potter films was that he knew my name and shared his fearless, filthy sense of fun with me."
5. James Phelps
James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley, also typed up a fond anecdote on X: "Very sorry to hear about the passing of Michael Gambon. He was, on and off the camera, a legend." The actor and host shared "a little memory of Michael" and described a time when, instead of enjoying his well-deserved break, the late actor took it upon himself to give James notes on another script.
6. Bonnie Wright
Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley, said she was "forever in awe of Michael’s presence and performance" on Instagram. "His deep mischievous voice between scenes would vibrate through the Great Hall," she continued. "He was Dumbledore through and through a constant, warm and guiding figure. Rest in peace Michael. Sending love to your family [heart emoji]"
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7. Stanislav Yanevski
Stanislav Yanevski, who played Durmstrang champion (and seeker for Bulgaria) Viktor Krum in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, also took to Instagram Stories to post a tribute. "I am very sad to hear that we’ve lost another legend. Sir Michael Gambon I am grateful to have shared the same set with you and will treasure all the great memories, laughter and lessons forever. R.I.P."
8. Fiona Shaw
Fiona Shaw, who played Petunia Dursley, spoke about the late actor during an interview with BBC Radio 4. "I will think of him as a trickster, just brilliant, magnificent trickster," she said. "There was nothing like him, he could do anything."
"We are incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Michael Gambon. He brought immeasurable joy to Harry Potter fans from all over the world with his humour, kindness and grace. We will forever hold his memory in our hearts," the official Harry Potter social media account wrote.
Rest in peace, Michael Gambon.
