'Harry Potter' Stars & Author J.K. Rowling Pay Tribute To Robbie Coltrane

Actor Robbie Coltrane sadly passed away on Friday, October 14, at the age of 72.

His agent released a statement saying that the "James Bond" actor suffered ill health over the past few years and passed away in a hospital located near his home in Scotland. He leaves behind two children.

Although the comedic actor had taken part in many roles over the years, he is best known to fans as the Hogwarts gamekeeper, Rubeus Hagrid, in the "Harry Potter" film franchise, starting with "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" in 2001.

Coltrane had recently taken part in the "Return to Hogwarts" 20th anniversary special that premiered on HBO Max on January 1. In the special, he lamented that, even though he won't be around in fifty years, Hagrid would still be remembered and loved by fans.

But, just as Hagrid will never be forgotten, neither will Coltrane, as "Harry Potter" stars and author J.K. Rowling paid tribute to the actor who brought the gentle giant to life.

Actor Daniel Radcliffe, who played the titular Harry Potter himself, released a statement shortly after his passing.

“Robbie was one of the funniest people I’ve met and used to keep us laughing constantly as kids on the set. 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 said." "I feel incredibly lucky that I got to meet and work with him and very sad that he’s passed. He was an incredible actor and a lovely man.”

Actress Emma Watson, who starred as Hermione Granger in the film franchise, took to her Instagram Stories to pay tribute with a lengthy message. “Robbie was like the most fun uncle I’ve ever had, but most of all, he was deeply caring and compassionate towards me as a child and an adult," she wrote. "His talent was so immense that it made sense he played a giant — he could fill ANY space with his brilliance.”

“Robbie, if I ever get to be so kind as you were to me on a film set I promise I’ll do it in your name and memory,” she continued. “Know how much I adore and admire you. I’ll really miss your sweetness, your nicknames, your warmth, your laughs, and your hugs. You made us a family. Know you were that to us.”

"There was no better Hagrid," she concluded. "You made it a joy to be Hermione."

Author J.K. Rowling shared the photo of the tweet at dinner, tweeting, "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."

Actor Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy in the film series, shared a photo alongside Robbie, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, who played Ron Weasley.

"One of my fondest memories of filming Harry Potter was a night shoot on the first film in the forbidden forest. I was 12. Robbie cared & looked after everyone around of him. Effortlessly. And made them laugh. Effortlessly," he recalled. "He was a big friendly giant on screen but even more so In real life. Love you mate - thank you for everything xx."

Actress Bonnie Wright, who played Ron's sister, Ginny Weasley, tweeted, "Heartbroken by the passing of Robbie Coltrane. Hagrid was my favourite character! Robbie portrayed Hagrid’s warmth, sense of home & unconditional love for his students and magical creatures so brilliantly. Thanks for all the laughter. Miss you Robbie. Sending love to your family."

Actor Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom, tweeted, “ Robbie. Bobser. He called me Space Boy. We shared a love of the final frontier. He didn’t give a f--- and it always made you smile. A giant, in more ways than one. We had some times x.”