New Delhi: Harry Potter fame Robbie Coltrane has passed away. The actor is known for his portrayal of the franchise's beloved and lasting character, Rubeus Hagrid. Coltrane, who was 72 years old, reportedly died yesterday. Condolences for the late actor have started pouring in on social media.
Daniel Radcliffe, J.K. Rowling and Robbie’s many admirers, paid heartfelt tributes to him that recalled their own personal moments with the actor.
In a statement sent to Deadline, Daniel Radcliffe aka Harry Potter said, “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,” his statement read. It should be noted that he and Coltrane shared screen space in all 8 Harry Potter movies.
Author of ‘Harry Potter’ J.K. Rowling tweeted a touching picture of herself and the late actor and wrote, I'll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again. He was an incredible talent, a complete one off, and I was beyond fortunate to know him, work with him and laugh my head off with him. I send my love and deepest condolences to his family, above all his children.”
Actress Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, sent a heartfelt message on her Instagram Story.
Ginny Weasley, portrayed by Bonnie Wright in the ‘Harry Potter’ films, penned, “Heartbroken by the passing of Robbie Coltrane. Hagrid was my favorite character! Robbie portrayed Hagrid’s warmth, sense of home and unconditional love for his students and magical creatures so brilliantly. Thank you for the laughter. Miss you Robbie. Sending love to your family.”
‘Harry Potter’ antagonist Draco Malfoy, portrayed by Tom Felton, wrote, “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. He was a big friendly giant on screen but even more so In real life. Love you mate - thank you for everything xx”
In addition to his role in the Harry Potter films, Robbie Coltrane is also known for his work in ‘Cracker’, ‘James Bond’, ‘GoldenEye’, and ‘The World Is Not Enough’.