British actor Robert Hardy, who played Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge in the "Harry Potter" films, has died. The 91-year-old's acting career spanned over 70 years and involved film, theatre, and television. According to The Guardian, Hardy passed away peacefully in his hometown of Bristol in the United Kingdom.
The star's family released a statement saying that the actor is celebrated by everyone who knew him. They also thanked the care home the star was residing in for the last few weeks, Denville Hall, which is a home for retired actors in London.
Hardy is best known for his work in "Harry Potter" and UK TV series "All Creatures Great and Small."
Robert Hardy as Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge
Hardy played the role of ineffective Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, in four of the "Harry Potter" films. The actor made his debut as Cornelius Fudge in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" which hit screens in 2002. It was the second movie in the film series. In 2004, "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" was released, followed by "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" in 2005. The final film in the series that Hardy starred in was "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" in 2007.
In the books and movie adaptations, Cornelius Fudge famously removed lovable groundskeeper Hagrid to Azkaban prison after a spate of attacks on Muggle-born wizards and witches at Hogwarts.
His character is controversial as he attempts to keep things in order as Minister for Magic but also disregards the opinions and rules of others around him.
The Minister for Magic also shows some level of disdain for the series' main character, Harry Potter, and Headmaster of Hogwarts, Professor Albus Dumbledore. Fudge was forced to resign from his position as Minister for Magic after he and fellow Ministry members saw the infamous Lord Voldemort for themselves, causing an outcry from members of the magical community who felt they had not been protected.
After Voldemort took over the Ministry of Magic, it is not known what happened to Cornelius Fudge.
Hardy survived by his three children
Robert Hardy married his first wife, Elizabeth Fox, in 1952, and the couple had a son together, Paul Hardy. The pair split in 1956, and Robert went on to marry costume designer Sally Pearson in 1961.
Hardy and Pearson were married for 15 years, with the marriage ending in 1986. The couple had two daughters, Justine and Emma Hardy, during their marriage. According to The Guardian, the children described their father as "always dignified" and said he will be remembered by everyone who enjoyed his work.
