Harry Potter star’s will sheds light on family dynamics, leaving partner Philipa Hart without inheritance
In a revelation that has sparked widespread discussion, the late Sir Michael Gambon, famed for his portrayal of Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series, has bequeathed his entire £1.5 million estate to his wife of 61 years, Anne Gambon, effectively leaving his long-term partner, Philipa Hart, and the mother of his two teenage sons, without any significant inheritance. The esteemed actor passed away in September following a bout of pneumonia, leaving behind a complex familial scenario that has now come to light with the publication of his will.
Gambon’s relationship with Hart, which began in 2000 during the filming of Longitude, resulted in a two-decade-long partnership and the birth of two sons, Tom, aged 17, and William, aged 15. Despite the unconventional family structure, with Gambon splitting his time between his wife and Hart, the will, formulated in 2016, makes clear provisions for his estate. His son Fergus, from his marriage with Anne, and Anne herself are named as the executors of the will, with instructions that Fergus would inherit the entirety of the estate should Anne predecease the actor.
The will offers a small legacy to his sons with Hart, each receiving £10,000 and a silver heart Variety Club of Great Britain stage actor award, a token of their father’s acclaimed career. However, Hart herself is conspicuously absent from the will, raising questions about the arrangements made for her and her children’s future support.
The announcement of Gambon’s death was made by his wife and son, requesting privacy during their time of grief and expressing gratitude for the support and love received. Over his six-decade career, Gambon became a household name, not only for his role in the Harry Potter series but also for his performances in The Singing Detective and Layer Cake, among others. His contributions to the arts were recognized with three Olivier Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and four BAFTAs.
This recent disclosure about the distribution of Gambon’s estate highlights the intricate and often private dynamics of family life, especially those lived in the public eye. As discussions continue, the focus remains on the legacy of Sir Michael Gambon, both as a celebrated actor and as a figure whose personal life decisions have now become a topic of public interest.
