A HISTORIAN who had the honour of meeting legendary actor Sir Michael Gambon has paid tribute to the “gracious and very delightful gentleman”.
The 82-year-old, best known for playing Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter, died in hospital on September 28 following a “bout of pneumonia”.
Sir Michael, who was born in Dublin, started out as an actor more than 60 years ago, where he was one of the original members of the National Theatre.
Historian Vin Harrop, who lives in Billericay, had the pleasure of meeting Sir Michael at the Old Vic site in the 70s.
Vin, 85, who is a regular contributor to the Echo’s letters’ page, said: “He was a wonderful man.
“When I was working on the Arts Council, which allowed me to study theatres across the county, I went to the National Theatre and came across Sir Michael several times.
“On every encounter, he was always a gracious and very delightful gentleman, who had time for everyone.
“I am so pleased and honoured to have met this true acting icon, and my thoughts are with his loved ones at this terribly sad time.”
The “beloved” actor died peacefully with his wife Anne and his son Fergus by his bedside.
In a statement issued on behalf of Lady Gambon and their son, it 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.”
He was an accomplished star of stage and screen, with him scooping up many Olivier, BAFTA, and Emmy awards in his career that spanned decades.
In 1998, Sir Michael was knighted for his contribution to the entertainment industry.
The icon made his first appearance on stage in a production of Othello at the Gates Theatre, Dublin in 1962 when he returned to Ireland following his move to the UK.
In recent times, he appeared in the 2019 Judy Garland biopic Judy, the 2016 Dad’s Army film, and Sky Atlantic’s 2015 thriller Fortitude.
Sir Michael Gambon is survived by his wife Anne, and his three kids; Fergus, Tom, and Will.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel