Remembering Rubeus: Robbie Coltrane Dies at Age 72

Robbie Coltrane tragically passed away October 14, 2022 at the age of 72. Coltrane was originally recognized as a Scottish comedian, but later made his debut as Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter series. 

As a child, Robbie attended Glenalmond College before attending the Glasgow School of Art. He originally was pursuing a career in art and painting, but quickly decided to focus on live performance. In college, he acted in radical theater groups and stand up comedy. 

Although Coltrane largely contributed to the Harry Potter films, he also contributed in other forms of programs. He appeared in the James Bond films, Goldeneye, The World Is Not Enough, and an ITV detective drama called Cracker. 

Coltrane was honored as OBE in the 2006 New Year’s honor list for his role in dramas and later in 2011, he was awarded the Bafta Scotland Award for his contribution to film. 

Robbie’s cause of death was not released until a week after he passed. The reports revealed that he died due to multiple organ failure. His death certificate states that he had been battling sepsis, a lower respiratory infection alongside blockages in his heart. Unfortunately, prior to his death, he had also been diagnosed with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Fortunately enough, he passed in his home land, Scotland, surrounded by friends and family.

In response to Coltrane’s death, many of his colleagues paid tribute to him. The author of the Harry Potter books, J.K. Rowling, tweeted that she will miss Coltrane and that he had incredible talent. Coltrane’s final appearance with the cast of Harry Potter was in January of 2022 on the 20th anniversary reunion specialty release on HBO Max. Robbie knew that he was not immortal “I’ll not be here, sadly. But Hagrid will,” said Coltrane on the reunion.

Robbie Coltrane’s legacy will live on forever through his contribution to film and his relationships with his cast mates and producers.