'Harry Potter' Actor Richard Griffiths Dies at 65

The acting community mourns a big loss today in actor Richard Griffiths, who died at 65 from complications of heart surgery.

Though Griffiths had over 100 film and television roles to his name, it was his role as grumpy Uncle Vernon Dursley in the “Harry Potter” series that made him instantly recognizable to universal audiences.

Daniel Radcliffe released a heartfelt statement on the death of his cast mate, who also starred beside him on stage in Equus.

"Richard was by my side during two of the most important moments of my career," Radcliffe said in a statement. "In August 2000, before official production had even begun on 'Potter,' we filmed a shot outside the Dursleys’, which was my first ever shot as Harry,” said Radcliffe.

“I was nervous and he made me feel at ease. Seven years later, we embarked on Equus together. It was my first time doing a play but, terrified as I was, his encouragement, tutelage and humor made it a joy. In fact, any room he walked into was made twice as funny and twice as clever just by his presence. I am proud to say I knew him".

Author of the series JK Rowling also acknowledged the loss via Twitter.

"RIP to one of Britain's most celebrated actors, Richard Griffiths. Keep rocking it in actor heaven."

Griffiths, a Tony winner, also appeared in “Sleepy Hollow,” Richard Attenborough’s “Gandhi,” “Bleak House,” and “Withnail and I.”

Theater director Thea Sharrock, who worked with Griffiths on three plays, had nothing but wonderful things to say about the actor.

"I worked with Richard more times than any other actor. Everybody knew he was my favorite. He was the most tender, gentle, kind, generous, loving man," she said. "His curiosity was unending, as was his striving for perfection. I cannot imagine a world without all those stories. I will miss him so very very much."

He is survived by his wife, Heather Gibson.