New Delhi: Actor Robert Hardy, who played the minister of magic in the Harry Potter series and is one of the familiar faces on British television, has died aged 91. In a statement while expressing the grief over his death, the family announced his death on Thursday. They said that Hardy had a tremendous life with a giant career in theatre, television, and film spanning for more than 70 years.

His children added that Hardy was a gruff, twinkly, elegant and a dignified man. He was celebrated by all who knew him and loved him and everyone who enjoyed his work.

Robert, born in 1925, kickstarted his career at the age of 24 in a stage adaption of William Shakespeare's "Coriolanus". He also performed several long-standing television shows including one of the famous show of BBC "All Creatures Great and Small".

In 1981, he was honored with a CBE, one of Britain's highest honors, for his services to acting.

Later, he was also known for his role of Cornelius Fudge in Harry Potter series. The Bafta-nominated actor appeared as the Minister of Magic in the series.