Robbie Coltrane

Anthony Robert McMillan (30 March 1950 – 14 October 2022), known professionally as Robbie Coltrane, was a celebrated Scottish actor. He is known to the Harry Potter fandom for his iconic and definitive portrayal of the Half-giant groundskeeper, Rubeus Hagrid, in all eight film adaptations of the Harry Potter series. His performance captured the character's immense warmth, loyalty, and gentle nature, making him a beloved figure to a generation of viewers.

Robbie Coltrane's connection to the role of Rubeus Hagrid was significant and began even before the films were cast.

• Casting: Coltrane was J.K. Rowling's very first choice for the part of Hagrid. She stated in early interviews that when asked who she would like to see in the role, she said “Robbie Coltrane for Hagrid” in a single breath (J.K. Rowling interview).
• Performance: He portrayed Hagrid with a booming yet kind voice, adopting a strong West Country accent as described in the novels. Coltrane masterfully balanced Hagrid's intimidating size with his often-vulnerable and emotional personality, perfectly capturing the essence of the character from the books.
• Physical Transformation: To achieve Hagrid's incredible size, the film productions used a combination of techniques. Coltrane wore large, padded costumes and, for certain close-ups, an animatronic headpiece that could blink and move its lips to match his dialogue. For long shots that required Hagrid to appear even larger, 6'10“ former rugby player Martin Bayfield served as a body double (film).
• Authorial Insight: J.K. Rowling trusted Coltrane with Hagrid's backstory and future long before it was revealed in the novels. This was done to give him a deeper understanding of the character's motivations and the unwavering loyalty he held for Albus Dumbledore and Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling interview).

Throughout the decade of filming, Coltrane developed a strong, paternal bond with the young actors, particularly Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson. They have frequently spoken about his humour and kindness on set. His close working relationship with J.K. Rowling was foundational to his casting and his faithful portrayal of one of her most beloved characters. Upon his passing in 2022, the author and the entire cast paid tribute to him as a tremendous talent and a wonderful human being.

Robbie Coltrane's portrayal of Rubeus Hagrid is considered inseparable from the character in the public consciousness. His performance is celebrated for its heart and authenticity, making Hagrid one of the most memorable and cherished figures of the film series. During the Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts special, Coltrane reflected poignantly on the enduring nature of the story and his role in it: “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 years' time, easy. I'll not be here, sadly… but Hagrid will, yes.” (HBO Max special).