There’s less magic in the world this afternoon after word broke that Robbie Coltrane, the beloved Scottish actor, has passed away at 72. According to Coltrane’s agent, the Harry Potter and James Bond actor had been feeling worse for wear over the past two years. Coltrane passed in a hospital near his home in Larbert, Scotland.
Famous for playing the Hogwarts gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter series, Coltrane also played Valentin Dmitrovich Zukovsky in the James Bond films Goldeneye and The World Is Not Enough. Taking his stage name from jazz saxophonist John Coltrane, Robbie made a name for himself during a theater production of Byrne’s The Slab Boys.
On the television side of the spectrum, Coltrane played forensic psychologist Dr. Edward ‘Fitz’ Coltrane in Cracker, an award-winning drama series. Coltrane won three consecutive BAFTA awards for the role, celebrating his consistency as someone who could captivate an audience. According to numerous reports, Coltrane was thankful for his place in the Harry Potter universe. The Rubeus Hagrid role brought him joy and renewed his presence on the big screen. He gained many meaningful friendships during his Harry Potter tenure, including a special bond with the Boy Who Lived, Daniel Radcliffe.
Coltrane leaves behind two children and many fans who will treasure his contributions to the film industry for generations to come. We at JoBlo offer Mr. Coltrane’s family, friends, and fans our sincerest condolences and wish the deceased safe passage to a Three Broomsticks Inn stocked with plenty of Butter Beer and Mead.