Irish actor Michael Gambon has passed away aged 82

The actor died peacefully in hospital with his wife and son by his side.

Michael Gambon, perhaps best known for his role as Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films, has passed away at the age of 82. Sky News reported the news, stating that the actor passed away peacefully in hospital with his family. They received the following statement from Gambon's family.

"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."

Sir Michael Gambon was born in Cabra in Dublin in October 1940. He began his acting career more than 60 years ago and was one of the original members of the Royal National Theatre alongside fellow great, Laurence Olivier. Gambon famously took over the role of Albus Dumbledore from actor Richard Harris after he passed away in 2002. He made his first appearance in Harry Potter: The Prisoner of Azkaban. Header images via Getty via Mike Marsland/WireImage & IMDb READ ON: - 15 uniquely Irish Halloween costume ideas for 2023