UNITED KINGDOM: Robbie Coltrane, who is highly popular for portraying the role of Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter film franchise, passed away at the age of 72. Sadly, the actor who made every early 2000s kid’s childhood memorable is no longer with us.
Coltrane gained the spotlight with the 1993 British drama series, Cracker. The actor played the role of Dr Edward “Fitz” Fitzgerald, which was loved by audiences and critics. His performance in the lead role bagged prestigious awards, including the British Academy Television Award (BAFTA) in the best actor category. He won the prestigious award three times, which was an applaudable aspect.
Following the popularity of the British drama series, Robbie Coltrane bagged the role of Hagrid in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001). Besides Dumbledore and McGonagall, Hagrid arrives as the closest ally to help Harry Potter from the Dursley family.
Coltrane later appeared in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002), Prisoner of Azkaban (2004), Goblet of Fire (2005), Order of the Phoenix (2007), Half-Blood Prince (2009), Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010) and Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011).
Every Potterhead has a special place for Hagrid, and given the perfect casting of Coltrane in the role, the character has left a huge impact on viewers. With the remarkable journey of his character in the film franchise, the actor has made the character a picture-perfect depiction through his performance and expressions.
Harry Potter team pays tribute to Robbie Coltrane
Daniel Radcliffe, our Harry Potter, paid tribute to Robbie Coltrane. The actor added, “Robbie was one of the funniest people I’d ever met, and he used to keep us kids on set laughing all the time. When we were all housed in Hagrid’s hut for hours in the pouring rain during Prisoner of Azkaban, I recall him keeping our spirits high with stories and jokes to lighten the mood.”
”I consider myself extremely fortunate to have met and worked with him, and I am deeply saddened by his death. He was a wonderful actor and a lovely man,” the actor stated.
Emma Watson also penned a message on her Instagram story by posting a picture of Robbie Coltrane. The actor wrote, “Rest In Peace, Robbie Coltrane. Robbie was like the most fun uncle I’ve ever had, but most of all, he was deeply caring and compassionate towards me as a child and an adult. His talent was so immense it made sense he played a giant- he could fill ANY space with his brilliance.”
“Robbie, if l ever get to be so kind as you were to me on a film set, l promise I’ll do it in your name and memory. Know how much I adore and admire you. I’ll really miss your sweetness, your nicknames, your warmth, your laughs, and your hugs. You made us a family. Know you were that to us. There was no better Hagrid. You made it a joy to be Hermione,” the Harry Potter star further added.
Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy, shared a photo featuring Coltrane along with Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, and himself. The actor tweeted, ”One of my fondest memories of filming Harry Potter was a night shoot on the first film in the forbidden forest. I was 12. Robbie cared & looked after everyone around of him. Effortlessly. And made them laugh. Effortlessly.”
Robbie Coltrane was last featured in Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts. Coltrane made the role of Hagrid iconic, leaving a worldwide impact on fans through his performance. He may have left the world, but the actor’s phenomenal portrayal of Hagrid still remains in our hearts.
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