J.K. Rowling pays tribute to Harry Potter actor Robbie Coltrane

J.K. Rowling has taken to Twitter to pay tribute to the late Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid in the Harry Potter franchise.

The author praised the actor, who passed away today (14 October), in a heartfelt post where she shared her condolences with his family.

She wrote on Twitter: "I'll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again. He was an incredible talent, a complete one off, and I was beyond fortunate to know him, work with him and laugh my head off with him.

"I send my love and deepest condolences to his family, above all his children."

Alongside her heartfelt words, the author shared an intimate photograph of the two of them seemingly at an awards ceremony holding hands.

@jk_rowling/Twitter

Rowling's tribute comes after fans have been reflecting on Coltrane's heartbreaking words about his legacy as Hagrid.

Speaking about the role on HBO Max's Harry Potter: Return to Hogwarts, the Scottish actor, who was 72 at the time of his death, said that Hagrid would be around long after him.

"It's the end of an era," an emotional Coltrane said in the documentary. "Ten years of my life. My children have grown up during it."

He added: "The legacy of the movies is that my children's generation will show them to their children... So you could be watching it in 50 year's time, easily... I'll not be here, sadly... but Hagrid will, yes."

News of the actor's death was confirmed by his agent, who said that for many he will be best remembered for his role in the Harry Potter films.

Belinda Wright said in a statement: "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."

Alamy / Collection Christophel

James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley, also paid tribute to the actor and said: "I will miss the random chats about all subjects under the sun.

"And I'll never forget in September 2000, Robbie Coltrane came over to a very nervous 14yr old me on my 1st ever day on a movie set and said 'Enjoy it, you'll be great'. Thank you for that."

As reported by the MailOnline, news of the actor's ailing health was suggested earlier this year when he had to cancel an appearance at London's Comic Con in June.