VERSUS - Episode 2
BEST DUMBLEDORE?
Richard Harris vs. Michael Gambon


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This round is the battle of the Dumbledores! Which actor portrayed the character of Albus Dumbledore the best for you?

Versus
1. Captain America - 1 vs. 2 vs. 3
2. Best Dumbledore - Harris vs. Gambon

Michael for me. That might be because I only got into the franchise 1 film before it finished, but his performance felt so much more polished, to me. But it's really saddening that Richard Harris couldn't finish it </3 As I think he might have given a more real and raw performance, in the end. So that was a big loss to the franchise.

Michael Gambon for me. Sad that Harris again couldn't finish it.

I think Richard Harris was fine for the kid friendly light tone of the first two movies, but I can't see how it would've worked with the later versions where Dumbledore was more active (not that that was his fault mind!), I wasn't keen on Gambon at first as he seemed too harsh to be Dumbledore, but I warmed to him and his Performance in Phoenix and Half Blood Prince was incredible.

I agree with the general consensus that Gambon suited the role more. I liked how wise Harris seemed in the role but he did feel too frail to be one of the most powerful wizards alive. Obviously it's very sad that he wasn't able to finish the series though </3 Gambon was much more agile and sprightly which suited the big action scenes he had later on in the franchise, plus he had some lovely comedic moments too.

 

Excited to see Jude Law's version of young Dumbledore now too!!

I think it's hard to compare as Michael Gambon did have meatier material to work with but I've given him my vote as it's hard to imagine Richard Harris fitting with the darker tone of the later movies as much.