12 Harry Potter Actors Who Were Replaced In The Sequels

By Simon Gallagher / August 9, 2016

2. Richard Harris - Professor Dumbledore

The Replacement: Michael Gambon

Looking back, the casting of British veteran Richard Harris was perfect for Albus Dumbledore: he was classically trained, charismatic and had a notorious mischief to his persona that contradicted his almost regal poise.

And his performance in the first two movies proved that casting to have been wonderfully considered. He almost didn't even take the role, turning it down initially before his granddaughter convinced him he had to take it by saying she'd never speak to him again if he didn't.

Sadly, Harris died two weeks before the premiere of The Chamber Of Secrets, and was recast for the third film, with Michael Gambon stepping in and impressively making the role his own.