Michael Gambon, who played Dumbledore in Harry Potter, dies at 82

English-Irish actor Michael Gambon, best known for playing Hogwarts Headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter movies, has died at the age of 82, Variety reports.

“We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon,” his family said in a statement. “Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia.”

Gambon’s acting career lasted for six decades. He was known for his stage work, even helping found the Royal National Theatre alongside Laurence Olivier. He did a ton of Shakespeare; his first onscreen role was in Othello in 1965. (That movie also featured the screen debut of Derek Jacobi). Other notable roles include parts in movies like Gosford Park and The King’s Speech.

Michael Gambon replaced original Dumbledore actor in third Harry Potter movie

Gambon would have been a very successful actor without the Harry Potter series, but that’s what made him into something of a household name. He first appeared as Albus Dumbledore in the third movie, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, which came out in 2004. In the prior two films, the role of Dumbledore was played by actor Richard Harris, who died in 2002. Gambon would play Dumbledore through to the end of the series.

We offer our condolences to Gambon’s family. He will be fondly remembered by people everywhere.

To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassing Facebook page and sign up for our exclusive newsletter.

Get HBO, Starz, Showtime and MORE for FREE with a no-risk, 7-day free trial of Amazon Channels