Actor Michael Gambon, known for playing Professor Albus Dumbledore in the “Harry Potter” films, has died at the age of 82.
“We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon,” his family announced in a statement through their publicist.
“We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love,” the statement added.
The family said Gambon died after a battle with pneumonia with the pair at his bedside.
Gambon got his start on the 1986 show “The Singing Detective” in which he played a writer suffering from a debilitating skin condition whose imagination provided the only escape from his pain.
He was likely best known for his work in the “Harry Potter” films, bringing the character of Dumbledore to life after taking over for the late Richard Harris from the third installment in the eight-movie series.
Gambon retired in 2015 after struggling to remember his lines in front of an audience.
