Actor Sir Michael Gambon He just died at the age of 82, in a hospital bed after an attack of pneumonia. He passed away peacefully, his family announced this Thursday morning, September 28.

Although he has more than 60 years of acting career behind him, which began in the theater, the performer became more popular with the public, especially the younger ones, when he accepted the role of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films.

A statement on his death, written by publicist Clair Dobbs, read: “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon. A beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne (Lady Gambon) and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia. Michael was 82 years old. “We ask that our privacy be respected at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”

Gambon played Professor Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts School, in six of the eight Harry Potter films. “To a well-organized mind, death is nothing but the next great adventure,” was one of his character’s memorable lines.

In 1998, the Irish actor (1940-2023) was knighted by Prince Charles for his services to the theatre, and his wife became Lady Gambon. The couple have a son, Fergus, who appears as an expert on Antiques Roadshow BBC.