JK Rowling broke her silence this evening with a touching tribute following the death of Sir Michael Gambon.

The Harry Potter author took to Twitter to share her heartfelt memories of the actor and wrote: "I've just heard the awful news about Michael Gambon. "The first time I ever laid eyes on him was in King Lear, in 1982, and if you'd told me then that brilliant actor would appear in anything I'd written, I'd have thought you were insane. "Michael was a wonderful man in additional to being an outstanding actor, and I absolutely loved working with him, not only on Potter but also The Casual Vacancy. "My deepest condolences go to Michael's family and everyone who loved him." The Harry Potter icon's family broke the heartbreaking news to fans across the globe in a statement on Thursday afternoon. On behalf of his wife, Lady Gambon, and son, Fergus Gambon, publicist Clair Dobbin released the message which read: “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. Michael was 82. [caption id="attachment_589238" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Credit: Warner Bros.[/caption] "We ask that you respect our privacy at this painful time and thank you for your messages of support and love.” The Irish-born British actor is best-known by Harry Potter fans as Professor Albus Dumbledore in the world-famous series. He played the role exquisitely from 2004 until 2008, after taking over from original actor, Richard Harris, following his death. Many celebrities have been paying tribute tonight, following the news, including Jeremy Clarkson, who wrote: "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 official Harry Potter Twitter account also shared their devastation over his passing, and said: "We are incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Michael Gambon. "He brought immeasurable joy to Harry Potter fans from all over the world with his humour, kindness and grace. We will forever hold his memory in our hearts."

READ MORE:

• Fans are not happy about Take That's 'ridiculous' 2024 tour prices
• A 24-hour Christmas radio station has launched in the UK
• Wonderlights is the festive event you cannot miss this winter
• Taylor Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour movie is coming to Ireland