Daniel Radcliffe is a well-known actor, but he first became famous for playing Harry Potter in the hugely popular film series. Before a new group of actors begins revisiting the story in 2027, Radcliffe worked alongside some of Britain’s most celebrated performers, like Robbie Coltrane, Jim Broadbent, Gary Oldman, and Maggie Smith. The original eight Harry Potter films received widespread acclaim for its cast, which helped solidify the franchise’s place as a true cinematic icon.
Daniel Radcliffe recently reminisced about his time filming the Harry Potter movies, sharing funny stories on the show Hot Ones. He fondly remembered working with the late Michael Gambon, who played Professor Dumbledore in the final six films, describing him as a playful prankster who wouldn’t stop joking around until filming began. Radcliffe shared some of Gambon’s amusing made-up acronyms and laughed as he recalled the fun they had together on set.
Michael Gambon, rest in peace, was a truly remarkable person. He was always playfully mischievous and never stopped being himself, even right up until the director yelled ‘action!’ He’d often try to make me laugh or just generally mess around. While some actors create an air of mystery, Michael was very direct. He’d simply ask, ‘What’s the shot?’ and you’d explain the setup. Once, he asked what ‘B-O-H-N-A-R’ meant, and when I asked him to repeat it, he explained it stood for ‘Back of head, no acting required!’ He’d say it with a grin, acknowledging that, yes, sometimes all that was needed was to simply be present.
While filming the sixth movie, my friend and I were doing the last scene, which involved being in a small boat. I don’t recall all the specifics, but we were heading to an island with dangerous surroundings. He started playfully asking what ‘T-T-I-A-B’ meant, and I was confused. He then explained it stood for ‘Two twits in a boat,’ and I confirmed, ‘Yes, Michael, it is.’
Michael Gambon’s Impact on Daniel Radcliffe & Harry Potter
When Richard Harris passed away, Michael Gambon took over the role of Hogwarts headmaster in the 2004 film Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. He brought a sense of seriousness and strength to the character. Despite portraying such a powerful figure, Daniel Radcliffe has suggested that Gambon was actually one of the biggest pranksters and funniest people on the Harry Potter set throughout the years.
Michael Gambon’s portrayal of Dumbledore brought a unique energy to the role, leaving a lasting impression on the Harry Potter films. He masterfully brought iconic scenes from the books to life, from the intense duels with Voldemort to the challenging search for Horcruxes with Harry, fully embodying the complex and heroic character.
HBO Max is currently filming a new Harry Potter television series, with John Lithgow taking on the role of Professor Dumbledore. While viewers will likely compare his performance to Michael Gambon’s, Daniel Radcliffe’s recent comments suggest Gambon’s legacy will be remembered for years to come.
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All eight movies from the Harry Potter saga are available to stream on HBO Max.
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2026-02-20 03:32