Sir Michael John Gambon

Sir Michael Gambon (1940–2023) was one of the most formidable and beloved actors of his generation on stage, television, and screen. Born in Dublin and raised in London, Gambon began his career as an apprentice toolmaker before being handpicked by Laurence Olivier to join the inaugural National Theatre company at the Old Vic.

He achieved legendary status in British theater starring in productions of Harold Pinter, Samuel Beckett, and Arthur Miller, winning three Laurence Olivier Awards. On television, his portrayal of the psoriasis-stricken mystery novelist in Dennis Potter's The Singing Detective (1986) won him his first of four BAFTA TV Awards.

Beginning in 2004 with Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Gambon took over the role of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore, imbuing the character with mischievous warmth, gravitas, and fierce protective energy across six films.