'Harry Potter' Actor Robert Hardy Dead at 91

08/31/2017 03:59 pm EDT

Robert Hardy, who portrayed Cornelius Fudge in the Harry Potter movies, has passed away at age 91.

The British actor died on Thursday, his family reports, according to TMZ.

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Hardy's long career in the entertainment industry spanned more than 70 years as he appeared in a number of film, TV, and theatre roles.

Other than playing the Minister of Magic in the Harry Potter flicks, Hardy was also known for portraying Winston Churchill a number of times in the series All Creatures Great and Small.

Hardy's children – Emma, Justine, and Paul – released a statement about their father's death, BBC reports.

"Dad is also remembered as a meticulous linguist, a fine artist, a lover of music and a champion of literature, as well a highly respected historian, and a leading specialist on the longbow. He was an essential part of the team that raised the great Tudor warship The Mary Rose. Gruff, elegant, twinkly, and always dignified, he is celebrated by all who knew him and loved him, and everyone who enjoyed his work."

Hardy passed away at a retirement home for actors in Denville Hall, which is located on the outskirts of London.

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