New Delhi: Irish-English actor Sir Michael Gambon has passed away. The veteran actor known for films like 'Fantastic Mr Fox' and the 'Harry Potter' film series died at 82. His family confirmed the same, reported BBC. His widow and son said their 'beloved husband and father' died peacefully with his family by his side after suffering from pneumonia.


Gambon had an illustrous career spanning six-decades. The veteran received three Olivier Awards, four BAFTA Awards and has also been knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for services to drama.


Gambon made his film debut in 'Othello' in 1965. Known for his work on many productions of William Shakespeare's plays, Gambon was an expert in that field of theatre.


He subsequently worked in many British and Hollywood film productions and massive stardowm for his role of Albus Dumbledore in the 'Harry Potter' film series from 2004 to 2011, replacing Richard Harris.


The ‘Harry Potter’ legend's family shared the heartbreaking news in a statement on Thursday.


On behalf of his wife Lady Gambon and son Fergus Gambon, issued by publicist Clair Dobbs.


The statement, accessed by Mirror.co.uk, reads, “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. Michael was 82. We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.”


Devastated fans flocked to X (formerly Twitter), to pay tribute to the icon, with one writing: "Such sad news - an acting legend and so much loved. Sir Michael Gambon will be remembered for so many great roles."


While another commented: "Not Dumbledore. RIP Sir Michael Gambon. Millennials are in mourning."


Sir Michael Gambon's work on TV was also well feliciated. He received four BAFTA Awards for 'The Singing Detective', 'Wives and Daughters', 'Longitude' and 'Perfect Strangers'.


In 2017, he received the Irish Film & Television Academy Lifetime Achievement Award. Three years later, he was also listed at No. 28 on The Irish Times list of Ireland's greatest film actors.


With IANS inputs!