Tributes have been paid to the actor Sir Michael Gambon who has died at the age of 82.

He was well known for playing the role of Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight Harry Potter films and has an extensive back catalogue of work across TV, film, radio and theatre.

Other prominent roles included French detective Jules Maigret in ITV series Maigret, and starring in the BBC series, The Singing Detective.

A statement issued on behalf of Lady Gambon and son Fergus Gambon said: “We are devastated to announce the loss of Sir Michael Gambon.

Bournemouth Echo: Sir Michael Gambon died peacefully in hospital, his family said in a statementSir Michael Gambon died peacefully in hospital, his family said in a statement (Image: Ian West/PA Wire)

“Beloved husband and father, Michael died peacefully in hospital with his wife Anne and son Fergus at his bedside, following a bout of pneumonia.”

Tributes paid to 'legendary' actor

The Grand Tour host and former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson was one of the first to pay tribute to Gambon, mentioning they had named a corner of the Top Gear racetrack after him following a guest appearance on the show.

He said: "I’m so sad to hear that Michael Gambon has died. He was hugely amusing, and such a tremendous guest, we even named a corner after him."

The comedian and TV presenter David Baddiel also praised Gambon, describing him as showcasing the "best stage acting" he'd ever seen.

He posted on X (formerly known as Twitter): "First time I ever went to see any Theatre with a capital T it was Michael Gambon in Brecht’s Life Of Galileo at The National in 1980. It’s still the best stage acting I’ve ever seen. RIP."

Meanwhile, the actor Stuart Antony shared: "Saddened to hear Sir Michael Gambon has passed away aged 82 - what a man and a lovely, talented & charming one at that. A pleasure to have met and worked with you x".

Actor Peter Egan, who is best known for his work on Downton Abbey, posted: "Deeply sad to see this. One of the funniest men on the planet and a great actor. I’ll miss him".

Theatre Scotland paid tribute to Gambon by posting: "Legendary British stage & screen actor, Michael Gambon has died at the age of 82.

"Best known for playing Dumbledore in Harry Potter, Gambon also starred in many theatre productions including with the National Theatre."

Classic FM shared a message of praise for the actor, writing: "Farewell to much-loved actor and and classical music enthusiast, Sir Michael Gambon. The Irish-English actor is known for his legendary performances on stage and screen, including as Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter. The 82-year-old died peacefully with his family at his side."