Most known for his role as Hagrid in the Harry Potter film franchise, actor Robbie Coltrane has passed away at the age of 72. He is being remembered by his family, fellow castmates, and fans across the world.

The veteran actor was born in Scotland as Anthony Robert McMillan, eventually renaming himself in tribute to musician John Coltrane. His career began in his early 20s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s, when Coltrane earned his breakout role in the British drama series Cracker. He assumed the dynamic character of Eddie Fitzgerald, an intelligent criminal psychologist, yet also a troubled alcoholic and gambler. For his role in Cracker, Coltrane was presented with the British Academy Television Award for Best Actor for three consecutive years.

He would go on to make his mark on the entertainment industry acting in a variety of pieces, including in two James Bond movies, the television show National Treasure, and the Disney animated film Brave.

The most famous and beloved role that Coltrane has played came in his later years, with his appearance in all eight films of the Harry Potter franchise. Coltrane played Rubeus Hagird, a half-giant and half-human known for his charming personality. Hagrid was a central mentor for antagonist Harry Potter, as well as the groundskeeper of the fictional Hogwarts School of Witchcraft.

“I was a fan of Hagrid’s dragon Buckbeak,” said sophomore Sam Kim. “I think Hagrid was kind and a good role model.”

Perhaps the greatest line of his career, Coltrane is well known for Hagrid’s exclamation of, “Yer a wizard, Harry!” The phrase from Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone is engraved in the minds of many, sparking many memes and earning its place in the pop culture realm.

“Hagrid was part of my childhood and one of my favorite characters. I adored how he was always so friendly and helpful to Harry,” said sophomore Sabrina Lo. “I think Coltrane will be remembered for a long time, especially by our generation.”

Upon his passing on Oct. 14, many of Coltrane’s castmates have left kind messages on social media in remembrance of the actor.

“Robbie was one of the funniest people I’ve met and used to keep us laughing constantly as kids on set,” posted Daniel Radcliffe, the actor for Harry Potter. “I’ve especially fond memories of him keeping our spirits up on ‘Prisoner of Azkaban,’ when we were all hiding from the torrential rain for hours in Hagrid’s hut and he was telling stories and cracking jokes to keep morale up…He was an incredible actor and a lovely man.”

Coltrane’s cause of death has not been disclosed to the public, but it is said that he died at a hospital in Scotland. He is survived by his sister, two children, and their mother. 

Coltrane may not be with us any longer, but his four-decade acting career of beloved performances has truly left a lasting impact in the hearts of those worldwide.

Photo Courtesy of FLICKR.COM