Ian Abercrombie

His character Professor Crumbs from Wizards of Waverly Place (2007) was a reference to Albus Dumbledore from Harry Potter film series. Richard Harris who played Dumbledore in two first parts of Harry Potter film series died 9 days before "Harry Potter and Chamber of Secrets" (2002) premiered; Abercrombie died 19 days after the last episode of Wizards of Waverly Place aired.

Stepped in for an ailing Whoopi Goldberg, at the last minute, as emcee/host for the 2001 BAFTA/LA Britannia Awards honoring Steven Spielberg. The award was presented by H.R.H. Prince Andrew, Duke of York.

Shared two roles with Clive Revill. Revill was the voice of "Alfred Pennyworth" in early episodes of Batman: The Animated Series (1992), a role Abercrombie played in Birds of Prey (2002). Revill was also the first actor to play "Palpatine", in Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980). Abercrombie voiced the character in the animated, Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008) series.

Ian Abercrombie began his theatrical career as a lad during the Blitz in World War II. After his footwork years during which he earned Bronze, Silver and Gold medals in dance for the stage, he performed in London, Holland, Ireland, and Scotland. He made his American stage debut in 1955 in a production of "Stalag 17" with Jason Robards and Jules Munshin. Many plays in summer stock, regional and off-Broadway followed in a variety of theatrical offerings, from revues to Shakespeare. During a particularly low period, he worked as a magician's assistant for $10 per performance.