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‘Harry Potter’ Star Reveals Heartbreaking Health News, “Doesn’t Have Long to Live”

The world of Harry Potter has long been a beloved place for fans, with characters and their actors continuing to captivate audiences long after the final movie premiered. But amid the ongoing fanfare, one Harry Potter star has revealed some heartbreaking news that has left fans reflecting on life beyond the magical world.

Miriam Margolyes, known for portraying the beloved Professor Sprout in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002) and Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (2011), has been no stranger to sharing candid thoughts over the years.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Credit: Warner Bros. Promotional Image

Related: ‘Harry Potter’ Star Tells Fans to “Grow Up” and Get Over It

While her opinions on the franchise and its loyal following have often stirred the pot, it is her recent personal revelation that has garnered sympathy and support from fans around the world.

In a deeply personal interview, Margolyes opened up about her health struggles, giving an emotional insight into her life as she faces some tough challenges ahead.

While her outspoken nature about the Harry Potter franchise, especially her comments about adults still clinging to the wizarding world, might have rubbed some fans the wrong way, her recent disclosure is nothing short of a raw and emotional moment.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
Credit: Video Screenshot, ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2’, Warner Bros.

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In a candid interview with The Times, Margolyes has admitted that her health has been a serious concern, and as an 84-year-old actress, she doesn’t expect to have much time left.

When you know that you haven’t got long to live – and I’m probably going to die within the next five or six years, if not before, I’m loath to leave behind performing. It’s such a joy. I yearn to play roles that don’t confine me to wheelchairs, but I’m just not strong enough.

This candidness about her limited time left has touched a chord with fans and supporters. Miriam’s words resonate deeply as she reflects on her lifelong passion for acting, despite the physical struggles she faces daily.

Miriam Margolyes as Professor Sprout
Credit: Video Screenshot, ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’, Warner Bros.

Margolyes also elaborated on the surgery that led to her current health state.

I’ve got a cow’s heart now. Well, not the whole heart. I’ve had an aortic valve replaced by a cow’s aortic valve. I don’t know how common it is. I’d never heard of that operation. But it saves you from having open heart surgery, which would be infinitely more invasive.” 

Margolyes’ health issues are not new to her fans. In past interviews, she has been open about her struggles with several physical ailments. She has been registered as disabled and relies on mobility aids like walking sticks, a walker, and a scooter to get around.

In addition to these challenges, she suffers from spinal stenosis, arthritis, and rheumatism, which means she is often in constant pain. Yet, despite these ongoing struggles, her passion for acting remains undimmed.

Professor Sprout Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Credit: Video Screenshot, ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’, Warner Bros

Related: The Wizarding World Expands: New ‘Harry Potter’ Books Coming This August

Recently, Miriam Margolyes has continued to appear in various television shows and films. She’s made notable appearances in Badjelly, Doctor Who, Dog Squad, and Hilda, all while managing her difficult health conditions. Her ability to keep acting, even under such strain, is a true testament to her dedication.

Margolyes is also involved in two upcoming projects: Holy Days, which is currently in post-production, and Heart of Darkness, still in pre-production.

What do you think of Miriam Margolyes’ health struggles and her thoughts on the Harry Potter series? Should she be more considerate of the fans who hold the franchise dear, or is her blunt honesty refreshing? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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