'Harry Potter' star Michael Gambon has passed away in hospital at the age of 82.
A statement issued on behalf of the family said: "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.”
Jason Isaac, who played Lucius Malfoy, wrote "Magnificent Michael Gambon has died. I learned what acting could be from Michael in ‘The Singing Detective’ – complex, vulnerable, and utterly human.
“The greatest thrill of being in the ‘Potter’ films was that he knew my name and shared his fearless, filthy sense of fun with me.”
James Phelps, who was Fred Weasley in the ‘Potter’ series added on X: “Very sorry to hear about the passing of Michael Gambon. He was, on and off the camera, a legend.”
Rupert Grint who played Ron wrote on Instagram "So sad to hear about Michael. He brought so much warmth and mischief to every day on set. He captivated me as a kid and became a personal role model of mine for finding the fun and eccentricities in life. Sending all my love to his family."
Posting on X, JK Rowling spoke about the first time she met Michael.
"The first time I ever laid eyes on him was in King Lear, in 1982, and if you'd told me then that brilliant actor would appear in anything I'd written, I'd have thought you were insane. Michael was a wonderful man in addition to being an outstanding actor, and I absolutely loved working with him, not only on Potter but also The Casual Vacancy. My deepest condolences go to Michael's family and everyone who loved him."
