Beloved "Harry Potter" star Daniel Radcliffe has paid tribute to the late veteran actor Michael Gambon, who passed away at 82, according to USA TODAY.

Gambon was widely recognized for his portrayal of the wise and beloved Hogwarts headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, in six of the eight films within the "Harry Potter" franchise.

 He took on this iconic role following the passing of his predecessor, Richard Harris, in 2002, starting with "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" in 2004 and continuing through "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2."

Radcliffe, who portrayed the titular character throughout the franchise's entirety, from childhood to young adulthood, fondly recalled his time working alongside Gambon in these films.

In a statement provided to USA TODAY by Radcliffe's representative, he expressed his deep respect and admiration for the late actor. "With the loss of Michael Gambon, the world just became considerably less fun," Radcliffe remarked.

He went on to highlight Gambon's extraordinary talent and noted that, beyond his immense acting prowess, what stood out most was the joy and enthusiasm with which Gambon approached his work. READ NEXT: 'Harry Potter' Star Robbie Coltrane Dead 

Michael Gambon Cause of Death

The cause of Michael Gambon's passing was announced by his publicist, Clair Dobbs, who stated that he passed away peacefully in the hospital.

His wife, Anne, and son, Fergus, were by his side, and the cause of death was attributed to a bout of pneumonia, CNN noted. Born in Dublin on October 19, 1940, Gambon was raised in London and initially pursued engineering, following in his father's footsteps.

He entered the world of theater without formal training, initially working as a set builder. Michael Gambon made his theater debut in a production of "Othello" in Dublin, and in 1963, he gained a significant break with a minor role in "Hamlet," the opening production of the National Theatre Company directed by Laurence Olivier, AP reports.

Gambon subsequently established himself as a distinguished stage actor and earned critical acclaim for his leading role in "Life of Galileo," directed by John Dexter.

He received numerous award nominations and won the Laurence Olivier Award three times and the Critics' Circle Theatre Awards twice.

In addition to his stage achievements, Gambon received four prestigious British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards for his contributions to television.

Tributes Pour in for the Legendary Michael Gambon

J.K. Rowling, "Harry Potter" series author, also remembered Michael Gambon, expressing her admiration for him as both an actor and a person.

She recalled their work together on both the "Harry Potter" series and "The Casual Vacancy," expressing her deepest condolences to Gambon's family and all who cherished him.

David Suchet, celebrated for his role as Poirot, expressed his deep sorrow over Gambon's death, describing him as "a truly great actor" and someone he admired immensely. Suchet extended his love and sympathies to Gambon's family.

Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins, who shared the screen with Gambon in the 2010 Doctor Who Christmas special, remembered him as "the loveliest of legends," per The Independent.

She emphasized his kindness, calm demeanor, and unwavering support during their time together on set. Jenkins fondly referred to him as "My dear Kazran" and lamented the loss of this remarkable figure.

Jared Harris, whose father, Richard Harris, had portrayed Dumbledore before Gambon, paid tribute to the late actor on Twitter. Harris described Gambon as "a brilliant actor" and shared that he had the privilege of seeing him perform on stage multiple times.

He underscored the lasting impression Gambon had left on him, particularly as he took on the role of Dumbledore, succeeding his father. Harris noted the fitting passing of the torch from one esteemed actor to another.

Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, expressed her admiration for Gambon.

In an Instagram Story, she highlighted his ability to deliver serious moments with gravitas while maintaining a light-hearted approach.

Watson appreciated Gambon for demonstrating how to wear greatness with ease and grace and conveyed her heartfelt sentiments, stating that he would be dearly missed.

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Michael Gambon, Dumbledore Actor in 'Harry Potter' Films, Dead at 82 - From Entertainment Tonight