The passing of actor Robbie Coltrane came as a shock to many this past Friday as fans and colleagues came out to mourn the beloved actor. Coltrane was best known internationally for playing Hagrid in the films for the Harry Potter franchise.
The actor's personality meshed well with his fellow costars—many of whom were children in their first major acting roles. His passing left them reminiscing.
In the wake of Coltrane's death, actor Daniel Radcliffe who played Harry Potter's titular star issued a heartfelt statement in tribute.
He wrote:
"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."
\u201cDaniel Radcliffe issues heartfelt statement following the passing of \u201cHarry Potter\u201d co-star Robbie Coltrane: \n\n\u201cI feel incredibly lucky that I got to meet and work with him and very sad that he\u2019s passed. He was an incredible actor and a lovely man.\u201d\u201d— Pop Crave (@Pop Crave) 1665770326
Coltrane was an adult figure most of the Harry Potter stars grew up around. He was well known by the cast for his amicable character and having a wonderful sense of humor.
Coltrane spent a large chunk of his career reprising the role of Hagrid alongside Radcliffe in each of the eight wizarding sagas.
Hagrid's character was central to the Harry Potter storyline as one of Harry's closest allies. Not unlike Coltrane himself, Hagrid was portrayed with a friendly demeanor which helped to endear him to fans.
Understandably, the actor took great pride in the significance of his role.
In one viral interview, Coltrane alluded to his portrayal of Hagrid living on as part of his legacy.
\u201c"The legacy of the movies is \u2026 that my children's generation will show them to their children. So you could be watching it in 50 years' time, easy. I'll not be here, sadly, but... Hagrid will, yes\u201d \n\nThank you Robbie Coltrane \ud83d\ude4f \nhttps://t.co/oWB0AvTqHL\u201d— Culture Crave \ud83c\udf7f (@Culture Crave \ud83c\udf7f) 1665766623
Like Radcliffe, other costars have taken to commemorating Coltrane's life.
Draco Malfoy actor Tom Felton posted several heartfelt messages to Twitter.
\u201cHe was a big friendly giant on screen but even more so In real life. Love you mate - thank you for everything xx\u201d— Tom Felton (@Tom Felton) 1665780866
Hermione Granger actress Emma Watson paid remembrance via her Instagram story.
"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.”
Ron Weasley actor Rupert Grint took to his Instagram as well to pay homage.
"Heartbroken to hear that Robbie is gone. I'll never forget the smell of his cigars and beard glue - a wonderful combination."
"No one else on this planet could have played Hagrid, only Robbie."
Fans have likewise taken to social media to offer Coltrane their respects.
\u201cRIP Robbie Coltrane. You will be our Hagrid, Always.\u201d— RedVelvet \ud83d\udc9a\ud83e\udd0d\ud83d\udc9c (@RedVelvet \ud83d\udc9a\ud83e\udd0d\ud83d\udc9c) 1665766750
\u201cRIP Robbie Coltrane, the best Hagrid we could have ever asked for \ud83e\udd79\u201d— Daily Harry Potter (@Daily Harry Potter) 1665767885
\u201cGoodbye, Robbie. You\u2019ll be missed. #HappyPotter #RobbieColtrane #Hagrid\u201d— Miriam Margolyes OBE (@Miriam Margolyes OBE) 1665824337
\u201cHeartbroken by the passing of Robbie Coltrane. Hagrid was my favourite character! Robbie portrayed Hagrid\u2019s warmth, sense of home & unconditional love for his students and magical creatures so brilliantly. Thanks for all the laughter. Miss you Robbie. Sending love to your family\u201d— Bonnie Wright (@Bonnie Wright) 1665773350
\u201c"There's no Hogwarts without you, Hagrid"\nThank you for all the years of magic, Robbie Coltrane.\u2665\ufe0f\nRIP, legend \ud83d\udd4a\u201d— H\ud83c\udf34\ud83d\udea8 | Trop\u2122 : saw Harry \u2661 (@H\ud83c\udf34\ud83d\udea8 | Trop\u2122 : saw Harry \u2661) 1665770695
House actor Hugh Laurie even had fond memories to share about Coltrane's life.
\u201cI hope it\u2019s OK to spout memories: I used to ride with Robbie Coltrane between Manchester and London in his sort-of-restored MGA. I\u2019d roll him cigarettes while he discoursed on the ways of the world, and I don\u2019t think I\u2019ve ever laughed or learned so much in my life.\u201d— Hugh Laurie (@Hugh Laurie) 1665772653
Aside from the Potter franchise, Coltrane is also known for appearances in two James Bond films: Goldeneye and The World is Not Enough.
He also starred in the British comedy film The Supergrass.
While filming for the latter, Coltrane gained a reputation for his willingness to take on daring scenes without the need for a stunt double.
\u201cOne of the most underrated & iconic scenes in British cinema. \nRobbie Coltrane in \u2018The Supergrass\u2019 \nNo stunt double. No CGI. Just balls of titanium. \nFor anyone needing a dose of pure grit, commitment and derring-do THIS is the business\u2026\u201d— Rae Earl (@Rae Earl) 1665817813
His determination to put on the best performance possible helped him to win the respect of many of his colleagues.
Throughout his career Coltrane was well known for the dedication he gave to his craft.
As a talented actor who was highly regarded by many, the world has certainly suffered a great loss in his passing.
