Legendary actor Robbie Coltrane has died

Legendary Harry Potter actor Robbie Coltrane has passed away at the age of 72.

Coltrane, who was best known for his role as Hogwarts groundskeeper Hagrid, died on Friday (14 October), his agent Belinda Wright has confirmed.

In a statement, she said: “My client and friend Robbie Coltrane OBE passed away on Friday October 14.

"Robbie was a unique talent, sharing the Guinness Book of Records’ Award for winning three consecutive Best Actor Baftas for his portrayal of Fitz in Granada TV’s series Cracker in 1994, 1995 and 1996 with Sir Michael Gambon.

“He will probably be best remembered for decades to come as Hagrid in the Harry Potter films, a role which brought joy to children and adults alike all over the world, prompting a stream of fan letters every week for over 20 years.

“James Bond fans write too to applaud his role in GoldenEye and The World Is Not Enough.

“For me personally I shall remember him as an abidingly loyal client. As well as being a wonderful actor, he was forensically intelligent, brilliantly witty and after 40 years of being proud to be called his agent, I shall miss him.

“He is survived by his sister Annie Rae, his children Spencer and Alice and their mother Rhona Gemmell. They would like to thank the medical staff at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert for their care and diplomacy.

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“Please respect Robbie’s family’s privacy at this distressing time.”

Most admired for his role in the Harry Potter franchise, Coltrane impacted the lives of millions through his portrayal of the lovable gentle-giant, Hagrid.

Speaking earlier this year for the highly anticipated Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts, Coltrane became emotional while reflecting on journey in the franchise.

"I just think it's the end of an era. It's 10 years of my life and my children have grown up during it, of course," the Scottish actor said.

"My children's generation will show them to their children so you could be watching it in 50 years time easy."

The actor then said as a devastating conclusion: "I'll not be here, sadly," before he added with a smile: "But Hagrid will, yes."

Tributes have been flooding in for Coltrane from fans and famous faces alike, including the likes of Stephen Fry, with whom he starred in the comedy series Alfresco.

“I first met Robbie Coltrane almost exactly 40 years ago,” Fry tweeted.

Warner Bros

“I was awe/terror/love struck all at the same time. Such depth, power and talent: funny enough to cause helpless hiccups & honking as we made our first TV show, Alfresco.

“Farewell, old fellow. You’ll be so dreadfully missed.”

Coltrane built an impressive career as an actor, comedian and writer, with him being best known for roles in the 1995 James Bond movie GoldenEye, the 1983-1984 comedy series Alfresco alongside Stephen Fry, Emma Thompson and Hugh Laurie, and the 2016 drama National Treasure alongside Dame Julie Walters.