Sir Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban'

The Irish actor, who took over the role of wizard ALBUS DUMBLEDORE from RICHARD HARRIS in the hit films, has been seeing PHILIPPA HART, 41, for six years, and the couple are expecting their first child together in May (07).

A source close to the couple tells British newspaper The Mirror, "Philippa was approaching 40 at the time and was keen to have a baby - and despite his age Michael saw no reason not to. He can afford to provide for it and wants her to be happy."

Gambon already has a son, FERGUS, from his previous marriage to ANNE MILLER. They couple separated in 2002, but remain married.

Source: WENN