Robert Hardy, Minister for Magic in Harry Potter films, dies at 91

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Robert Hardy, who is best known for his roles in the "Harry Potter" saga and TV series "All Creatures Great and Small", died at the age of 91 at a retirement home for actors in suburban London on Thursday.

Hardy had "a tremendous life: a giant career in theater, television and film spanning more than 70 years," a statement issued by his family read.

Robert Hardy passed away on Thursday, aged 91.

Hardy started his acting career in 1959, playing various roles on stage.

The Royal Shakespeare Company tweeted: "We are very sorry to hear of the death of Robert Hardy, who acted with us in the 40s & 50s incl this production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream."

He became a household name in the UK after appearing in "All Creatures Great and Small" series as senior vet Siegfried Farnon. The show ran for 12 years from 1978 to 1990.

The acclaimed actor also played the roles of Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt several times. He won a BAFTA award for his role in "Winston Churchill: The Wilderness Years" in 1981.

Hardy was more familiar to the Chinese audience as Cornelius Fudge, the Minister for Magic from the "Harry Potter" franchise. He appeared in four instalments starting with "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” in 2002.

J.K. Rowling said Hardy was "such a talented actor" on Twitter.

Author J.K. Rowling extended her condolences on social media, calling Hardy "a talented actor" and noting that "everybody who worked with him on Potter loved him."

Hardy was awarded a CBE for his services to acting in 1981.

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