Sir Michael Gambon’s acting career spanned six decades. But, as we mentioned moments ago, he is best known for the role of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films.

Gambon only became the headmaster of wizarding school Hogwarts after the death of Richard Harris, who was Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter films, in 2002.

Gambon’s career first took off when he became one the original members of Laurence Olivier’s National Theatre acting company in London. He went on to win three Olivier awards for performances in National Theatre productions.

Gambon played French detective Jules Maigret in ITV series Maigret and was also known for his role as Philip Marlow in Dennis Potter’s The Singing Detective on the BBC.

His other film work includes the big screen adaptation of Dad’s Army, The King’s Speech and Gosford Park.

He was nominated for Emmy awards for his role as Mr Woodhouse in an adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma in 2010, and for playing President Lyndon B Johnson in Path to War in 2002.