Sir Michael Gambon passed away on September 27th, 2023, at the age of 82. To many younger movie fans, Gambon was Dumbledore from Harry Potter, but his career spanned decades prior to the conception of the boy who lived. As we celebrate his extraordinary career, Netflix offers a chance to revisit some of his performances.
Over his illustrious career, Gambon left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. The actor’s theatrical prowess shone in Shakespearean classics like Othello, Hamlet, Macbeth, and Coriolanus, earning him 13 Olivier Award nominations and three wins.
Gambon made his mark on the silver screen with roles in films and series like The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover, Gosford Park, and The Singing Detective.
Here’s a glimpse into the Michael Gambon films currently available for streaming on Netflix.
Michael Gambon movies streaming on Netflix UK and US:
Paddington (2014) and Paddington 2 (2018)
Here, we meet the young bear named Paddington, who travels to London and is taken in by the Brown family. Gambon lent his voice to Uncle Pastuzo, Paddington’s uncle. Elsewhere, the likes of Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins and Nicole Kidman star.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Fantastic Mr. Fox is a story of sticking it to the authorities. Mr Fox and his other friends band together to outwit three ruthless farmers threatening their livelihoods. Gambon voiced Franklin Bean, one of the central antagonists. A classic stop-motion animation from Wes Anderson, Fantastic Mr. Fox may just be the director’s greatest film.
Victoria and Abdul (2017)
The film follows Queen Victoria, who forms an unlikely friendship with Abdul Karim, a young Indian clerk, causing tension in the royal household. Gambon portrayed the role of Lord Salisbury, the prime minister.
King of Thieves (2018)
Lauded for its premise, not for its execution, the King of Thieves follows a group of elderly thieves led by Michael Caine’s Brian Reader. They plan a heist in the heart of London’s jewellery district. Gambon took on the role of Billy ‘The Fish’ Lincoln, a retired criminal.
Harry Potter (2004-2011)
After Richard Harris’ death, Michael Gambon took on the mantle of Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts’ wise and enigmatic headmaster, in the last six Harry Potter films. Guiding young Harry through this tumultuous fight against the evil wizard Voldemort, Gambon brought his own spark to the role.
Michael Gambon movies streaming on Netflix worldwide:
Layer Cake (2004)
Gambon played the crime lord Eddie Temple in the film about a London drug dealer’s retirement plan going awry. This was the same year Gambon appeared in Wes Anderson’s cult comedy The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, as well as the theatrical drama Being Julia, directed by István Szabó.
The Good Shepherd (2006)
The film follows the early years of the CIA through the eyes of Edward Wilson (Matt Damon) and his involvement in espionage and betrayal. Gambon’s character, Dr. Fredericks, was pivotal to the story.
The King’s Speech (2010)
The film follows King George VI (Colin Firth), who has to seek the help of a speech therapist (Geoffrey Rush) to overcome his stammer before he ascends to the throne. Gambon’s brief but impactful appearance as King George V added gravitas to this critically acclaimed historical drama.
The Book of Eli (2010)
In a post-apocalyptic world, Eli (Denzel Washington) has to protect a sacred book while navigating dangerous territory. Gambon portrayed the unsettling character of George, a blind survivor with a ghoulish secret.
Masterpiece Contemporary: Page Eight (2011)
Bill Nighy’s British intelligence officer, Johnny Worricker, uncovers a political conspiracy while working for MI5, leading to a high-stakes investigation. Michael Gambon portrays the role of Benedict Baron, Director General of MI5.
The Last Witness (2018)
This critically panned film follows a young journalist investigating Soviet war crimes in post-World War II Poland. Gambon played the role of Frank Hamilton in The Last Witness, which deals with one of Stalin’s most notorious crimes, the cover-up of the Katyn massacre.
Johnny English Strikes Again (2018)
Bumbling spy Johnny English (Rowan Atkinson) is called out of retirement to track down a hacker who has exposed British agents. And Gambon brought his wit and charisma to the role of Agent Five.
Judy (2019)
Judy marked Michael Gambon’s final film appearance. The film explores the later years of Judy Garland’s life, including her performances in London and her struggles with addiction and fame. Gambon portrayed Bernard Delfont, the Russian-born British theatre producer.
