Nathaniel Clark – A&E Editor

nuc5002@psu.edu

On October 14, the death of Robert Coltrane, famously known for his portrayal of Rubeus Hagrid in the “Harry Potter” film series, was announced by his agent. The actor was 72. 

Coltrane had an illustrious career along with his “Harry Potter” role, featuring in various other movies, including the role of Valentin Dmitrovich Zukovsky in two “James Bond” films. Outside of the movie world, the actor was the lead in the BAFTA-winning television series “Cracker” where he played Dr. Edward Fitzgerald. He also was known for performing on the stage in the 1980s.

While very little is known about his passing, many sources have stated that Coltrane had been ill for two years before.

After the announcement of Coltrane’s death, an outpour of tributes, condolences, and memories filled social media circuits from fans and co-stars. One of the more notable tributes was from Rupert Grint, known for playing Ron Weasley, who captioned in an Instagram tribute to the actor that he will “never forget the smell of cigars and beard glue – a wonderful combination. No one else on this planet could [have] played Hagrid, only Robbie.”

While Robert Coltrane has passed, no one will forget the gentle and warm-hearted giant that he brought to the “Harry Potter” films.