Harry Potter cast members are remembering the late and great Robbie Coltrane, who portrayed beloved giant Hagrid in the series.
News of the actor’s passing was confirmed by his agent Belinda Wright, who described him as “forensically intelligent” and “brilliantly witty.” She added that his role as Hagrid in all 8 films “brought joy to children and adults alike all over the world, prompting a stream of fan letters every week for over 20 years.”
Daniel Radcliffe, who played the titular role in the magical franchise, was among the first to share his love for the actor in a heartfelt message:
“Robbie was one of the funniest people I’ve met and used to keep us laughing constantly as kids on the set. I’ve especially fond memories of him keeping our spirits up on ‘Prisoner of Azkaban,’ when we were all hiding from the torrential rain for hours in Hagrid’s hut and he was telling stories and cracking jokes to keep morale up. I feel incredibly lucky that I got to meet and work with him and very sad that he’s passed. He was an incredible actor and a lovely man.”
Emma Watson, who portrayed Hermione in the series shared a loving message on her Instagram stories:
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“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 I ever get to be so kind as you were to me on a film set I 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.”
Tom Felton, aka Slytherin’s Draco Malfoy, shared one of his favourite memories with the late actor:
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“I was 12. Robbie cared and looked after everyone around him. Effortlessly. And made them laugh. Effortlessly. He was a big friendly giant on screen but even more so in real life. Love you mate – thank you for everything.”
Author J.K. Rowling is remembering Coltrane as “an incredible talent, a complete one off.”
He was 72.
(Feature Image Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/FilmMagic via Getty Images)