Robbie Coltrane, who played the lovable half-giant Rubeus Hagrid in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise, died at the age of 72, his agency WME confirmed on Friday night.

Coltrane appeared in every ‘Harry Potter’ film, from ‘Sorcerer’s Stone’ in 2001 to ‘Deathly Hallows Part 2’ in 2011, and was well-known for bringing the character from J.K. Rowling’s book series to life. He was one of the first characters to appear on screen, and he recited the famous line, “Yet a wizard, Harry,” To young Daniel Radcliffe as he began his journey into the wizarding world.
According to source, Hagrid was a towering figure with a soft heart. He looked after some of the most wild and iconic creatures from the ‘Harry Potter’ universe. Buckbeak the hippogriff, Fang the boarhound, Fluffy the three-headed dog, Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback dragon, Aragog the massive talking spider, and the ghostly great Thestrals were all in his care.
Daniel Radcliffe paid heartfelt tribute to Coltrane, saying, “Robbie was one of the funniest people I’ve met and used to keep us laughing constantly as kids on the set.” “I have especially fond memories of him keeping our spirits up on ‘Prisoner of Azkaban,’ when we were all hiding from the heavy rain for hours in Hagrid’s hut.” To keep confidence up, he was telling stories and cracking jokes. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have met and worked with him, and I am deeply saddened by his passing. He was an incredible actor and a wonderful man.”
Many will remember Coltrane from the ‘Harry Potter’ films as Hagrid, but he was also a member of the James Bond franchise, appearing in ‘Golden Eye’ in 1995 and ‘The World Is Not Enough’ in 1999. According to source, Coltrane recently returned to his ‘Harry Potter’ roots, appearing alongside Radcliffe and other stars, including Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, in HBO Max’s 20th anniversary ‘Return to Hogwarts’ reunion special.
During the reunion special, Coltrane said, “My children’s generation will show them to their children.” “You might be able to see it in 50 years.” I will not be present, but Hagrid will.” J.K. Rowling, the divisive ‘Harry Potter’ author, paid tribute to Coltrane on Twitter separately, writing, “I’ll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again.” He was a truly unique talent, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to have known him, worked with him, and laughed my head off with him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, especially his children.”