Robbie Coltrane, a seasoned humorist and actor best known for his leading roles in the Harry Potter film series and the British police drama Cracker, passed away on Friday at the age of 72.
The son of a doctor and a teacher, Coltrane was born Anthony Robert McMillan on March 30, 1950, in Glasgow, Scotland. Following his graduation from Glasgow Art School, he pursued further art education at Edinburgh's Moray House College of Education.
Coltrane began performing stand-up comedy in Edinburgh clubs after his attempts to pursue a career as an artist failed. As he transitioned to acting in London, he also changed his last name in honour of jazz great John Coltrane.
J.K. Rowling, the creator of the Harry Potter series, posted on social media to honour Coltrane, saying: "I'll never meet another person even close to Robbie. He was a truly unique talent, and I consider myself incredibly lucky to have known him, worked with him and laughed uncontrollably with him." My heartfelt condolences and affection go out to his family, especially his children."
In a statement, Daniel Radcliffe, who portrayed Harry Potter alongside Coltrane's Hagrid, said, "Robbie was one of the funniest guys I've encountered and used to keep us laughing continuously as kids on the set. In "Prisoner of Azkaban," when we were all hiding from the pouring rain for hours in Hagrid's hut, I have very nice recollections of him keeping our spirits up and delivering jokes. I'm very grateful that I had the chance to work with and get to know him, and I'm devastated by his passing. He was a kind man and an amazing actor.
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In the 2016 miniseries National Treasure, Robbie Coltrane received acclaim for his portrayal of an adored TV personality who might be hiding a sinister secret.
"Robbie was like the most fun uncle I've ever had, but most importantly, he was truly caring and sympathetic towards me as a child and an adult," wrote Emma Watson, who played the part of Hermione Granger, on her Instagram stories. His talent was so tremendous that it made sense he played a giant – he could fill ANY area with his brilliance."
Draco Malfoy actor Tom Felton posted an old shot on Instagram with the caption, "One of my favourite Harry Potter filming moments was a night shoot on the first film in the forbidden forest. I was 12. Robbie was concerned for and took care of everyone around him. Effortlessly. made them chuckle, too. Effortlessly. Onscreen, he appeared like a large, friendly giant but even more so In real life. Love you mate – thank you for everything.”
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