Robbie Coltrane, who brought various fictional characters to life, notably Rubeus Hagrid from Harry Potter, passed away at 72.
Before playing the part of Rubeus Hagrid in Harry Potter, Coltrane already experienced a lot in the entertainment world. Coltrane appears in many different movies. However, despite many people identifying him with diverse identities, the younger generation seems to remember him as Hagrid.
Coltrane assisted young Harry Potter and cared for him in risky situations as he played Hagrid. Bringing the baby Harry to his muggle family, the larger-than-life figure made his first appearance in the opening minutes of the film series. He went with professor McGonagall and Headmaster Albus Dumbledore. Hagrid brought Harry back into the wizarding realm when he was old enough.
When word of Coltrane’s passing broke, his admirers posted tributes on social media. They expressed gratitude to the one and only “keeper of keys and grounds at Hogwarts.” Who could ever forget the half-giant when he said, “Yer a wizard, Harry,” which for many signified the start of Harry’s quest in the wizarding world.
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Wizard friends’ high regard for Coltrane
Emma Watson, whose on-screen persona is Hermoine Granger, made a post on social media. As both of them reached the end of the series, she collaborated with Coltrane for a long time. According to Watson, Coltrane impacted his coworkers while he was on set, who spoke of his kindness.
“His talent was so immense it made sense he played a giant – he could fill ANY space with his brilliance,” Watson said.
“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 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 actor who gave Draco Malfoy’s life, Tom Felton, matched the traits of Hagrid and Coltrane. Like Hagrid, the actor cared more about others than himself, according to Felton.
“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 him. Effortlessly,” Felton wrote.
“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.”
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‘I’ll not be here, but Hagrid will’
As expected, the news made his followers disheartened. Fans gave credit to Coltrane and the roles he performed, just like they did for every other celebrity who passed away.
“Hagrid represented the concept of unconditional love. A true friend. Thank you, Robbie, for bringing this character to life,” said a fan.
“Another good one is gone. Rest in peace, Hagrid,” said another fan in a tweet with a photo showing Hagrid and Harry in a conversation.
When Coltrane appeared for HBO’s Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts, he said Hagrid will outlast him.
“The legacy of the movies is, I suspect, 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.”
Photo Credit: Ilya S. Savenok
Source: NPR
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