From Harry Potter to Hollywood: As Robbie Coltrane dies aged 72, FEMAIL reveals the VERY varied fortunes of the stars from the wizarding movie franchise - from cancer battles and drug arrests to glittering A-list careers

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Tributes have flooded in following the sad news of Harry Potter star Robbie Coltrane's death at the age of 72.

The Scottish star, whose real name is Anthony Robert McMillan, was best known for playing the beloved Hogwarts gamekeeper Hagrid and was awarded an OBE in 2006 for services to drama.

Among those who paid tribute to the actor were Harry Potter co-stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson and author of the novels, JK Rowling. 

Daniel has remembered his Harry Potter co-star Robbie as 'one of the funniest people' and an 'incredible actor', while Emma said: 'Robbie was like the most fun uncle I've ever had but most of all he was deeply caring.' 

Both Emma and Daniel have gone on to achieve glittering fame following the release of the first Harry Potter film 21 years ago, cementing their status as Hollywood A-listers.

However other members of the cast have faced a more challenging journey - with beloved stars Alan Rickman, who played Professor Snape, and Helen McCrory, who played Narcissa Malfoy, both dying of cancer.

Meanwhile others, such as Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom, underwent a Hollywood makeover, while some faced battles with the law. 

So what happened to Robbie's other Harry Potter cast members? Here FEMAIL reveals their varied fates and fortunes.   

So what happened to Robbie's other Harry Potter cast members? Here FEMAIL reveals their varied fates and fortunes (pictured, the main stars of the series, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson in Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone) 

Both Emma and Daniel have gone on to achieve glittering fame following the release of the first Harry Potter film 21 years ago, cementing their status as Hollywood A-listers - while their co-star Rupert has found less success in the acting world 

Daniel Radcliffe

Daniel was catapulted into the spotlight as boy wizard Harry Potter in the film franchise - based on J.K. Rowling's children's books - and since he left the role he has made it his mission to prove he is a talented actor and not just a child star who got lucky.

Since then, he has taken an unexpected route to his acting career - choosing a number of varied film and theater roles. 

The star thinks his part in Equus - in which he played 17-year-old suburban stable boy Alan Strang - was 'important' and it helped show off his acting prowess.

He previously said: 'Doing Equus was important. It showed people that I wasn't just here to capitalise on the Potter fame for as long as I could.

Daniel was catapulted into the spotlight as boy wizard Harry Potter in the film franchise - based on J.K. Rowling's children's books - and since he left the role he has made it his mission to prove he is a talented actor and not just a child star who got lucky

The star thinks his part in Equus - in which he played 17-year-old suburban stable boy Alan Strang - was 'important' and it helped show off his acting prowess

More recently, he has appeared in a number of larger Hollywood blockbusters, including The Lost City opposite Sandra Bullock (left and right) 

His next big role sees him taking on the part of Al Yankovic in a biopic depiction of the star's life (pictured) 

'I think ultimately, I'm ambitious because I want to prove everyone wrong who thinks that it's impossible to emerge from Harry Potter and do well.'

In 2013 he starred alongside Mad Men star John Hamm in the comedy-drama A Young Doctor's Notebook, while he took on a darker and edgier role as Arthur Kipps in the big-screen version of The Woman In Black (2012).

More recently, he has appeared in a number of larger Hollywood blockbusters, including  The Lost City opposite Sandra Bullock.

His next big role sees him taking on the part of Al Yankovic in a biopic depiction of the star's life.

However it hasn't been an easy route for the child star. Daniel has spoken openly about his battles with alcohol in the past.

In 2019, Daniel admitted he turned to alcohol as a way to deal with his global fame following the success of the Harry Potter franchise.

He became teetotal in 2010 and has since been on track.

Rupert Grint 

Rupert Grint was cast as Ron Weasley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone aged just 11. He went on to star in all eight films, which ranged from 2001 to 2011, earning him at least $70 million (£52 million)

Since the Harry Potter film series came to a conclusion in 2011, Rupert has starred in a slew of TV roles, including the sitcom Sick Note and the crime drama Snatch

He appeared in an Ed Sheeran music video, and recently welcomed a daughter with his partner, Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging star, Georgia Groome (pictured together) 

Rupert Grint was cast as Ron Weasley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone aged just 11.

He went on to star in all eight films, which ranged from 2001 to 2011, earning him at least $70 million (£52 million).

Since the Harry Potter film series came to a conclusion in 2011, Rupert has starred in a slew of TV roles, including the sitcom Sick Note and the crime drama Snatch.

However to some extent, he hasn't enjoyed the same blockbuster success as Emma and Daniel, and instead has chosen a more low-key approach to his fame.

He appeared in an Ed Sheeran music video, and recently welcomed a daughter with his partner, Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging star,  Georgia Groome. 

Earlier this year in a Sunday Times interview, Rupert admitted he still finds it 'very hard' to 'detach' himself from Ron having played Harry Potter's best friend for 10 years.

He explained: 'I measure my life in Harry Potter movies. They're so ingrained in me.

'I find it very hard to detach myself from being Ron - we merged into the same person. I can't believe it started 20 years ago. It definitely sculpted who I am.

'I mentally closed the door on it even though I'm constantly faced with it - there's the play, the theme park and it's always on TV.'

Since 2019, he has been appearing in the psychological horror series Servant and is set to star in Knock at the Cabin, which is to be released next year.  

Emma Watson

Emma was catapulted to stardom following the success of The Philosopher's Stone in 2001 as she took on the role of Hermione (left and right) 

Emma was catapulted to stardom following the success of The Philosopher's Stone in 2001 as she took  on the role of Hermione.

However after the film franchise wrapped, she decided to take the unusual step of attending university.

In 2011, Watson announced that she would be studying at Brown University. She graduated in 2014 with a bachelor's in English literature.

Despite being in school, she juggled her acting career where she appeared in 'My Week With Marilyn' (2011), 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' (2012), and 'The Bling Ring' (2013). 

The actress is now one of the biggest stars to come out of the francise - having enjoyed roles in Hollywood blockbusters like Beauty and the Beast and Little Women.

And outside of acting, she has become an activist, regularly making passionate speeches about sexism in her role as U.N. Women Global Goodwill Ambassador, which she has held since 2014.

Alan Rickman

Alan Rickman, who was born into a working-class family in Hammersmith, became one of the best-known villains in showbiz when he took on the role of Proffessor Snape in the Potter films (left and right) 

Alan Rickman, who was born into a working-class family in Hammersmith, began his acting career on the stage before graduating to Hollywood films.

He became one of the best-known villains in showbiz - appearing as Hans Gruber in Die Hard, the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Professor Snape in the Potter films.

The actor's other well-known films include Truly, Madly, Deeply, Sense and Sensibility and Love Actually, in which he played the husband of his frequent collaborator Emma Thompson, who was a close friend.

His role in Harry Potter brought him worldwide fame around the world. However he underwent a private battle with cancer during the years he was filming.

The actor was first diagnosed with prostrate cancer before production began on the fifth Harry Potter movie, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

He received treatment and underwent a procedure to have his prostrate removed in January 2006.

However the actor passed in January 2016 in London at 69 years of age.

Tom Felton 

Alongside Daniel, Emma and Rupert, Tom Felton is perhaps one of the most recognisable child stars from the Harry Potter franchise (left, as Draco Malfoy and right, this year) 

 Alongside Daniel, Emma and Rupert, Tom Felton is perhaps one of the most recognisable child stars from the Harry Potter franchise.

He rose to fame during his role as Draco Malfoy in the movie series, after auditioning for a number of roles - including Harry himself.

After the series ended, he took  on a number of roles - but none as popular or well known as his Harry Potter roots.

Throughout filming 'Harry Potter,' he also appeared in 'The Disappeared' (2008), 'Get Him to the Greek' (2010), and 'Night Wolf' (2010). 

He has been consistently working since then, albeit in smaller roles in TV and film, and recently made his West End theatre debut in London, in the play 2:22 A Ghost Story.

Earlier this week, he hit the headlines when he praised author of the original books JK Rowling for 'bringing so many generatons together' through the stories.

His comments come following a wave of backlash towards the writer following her controversial comments on transgender people - with the 35-year-old actor sharing that he 'doesn't pick sides'.

Chatting in a new interview with The Times T2 magazine, Tom drew on JK, real name moniker Joanne, and her mark on the entertainment industry.

He said: 'I couldn't speak for what others have said or what she said, to be completely honest, but I'm often reminded, attending Comic Cons [fantasy conventions] in particular, that no one has single-handedly done more for bringing joy to so many different generations and walks of life.

'I'm constantly reminded of her positive work in that field and as a person. I've only had a handful of meetings with her but she has always been lovely. So I'm very grateful for that,' he explained.

Helen McCrory 

Helen McCrory, who was awarded the OBE for services to drama in the 2017 New Years Honours, was best known for playing Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter films (left). She died aged 52 after a secret 'heroic battle' with cancer last year (right) 

Helen McCrory, who was awarded the OBE for services to drama in the 2017 New Years Honours, was best known for playing the matriarch Polly in Peaky Blinders and Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter films.

Her other movie roles included playing MP Clair Dowar in Skyfall and Cherie Blair in The Queen and The Special Relationship.

On television, she appeared in Doctor Who, Inside No 9 and His Dark Materials, and last year appeared in the Hugh Laurie drama Roadkill on the BBC and ITV's Quiz.

She also had an accomplished stage career, winning plaudits for National Theatre roles in productions of Medea and Terence Rattigan's The Deep Blue Sea.

McCrory was also was nominated for an Olivier for her role as Rosalind in As You Like It in at London's Wyndham's theatre in 2006.

The actress and Damian Lewis married in 2007 after falling in love when they were both cast in the play Five Gold Rings at the off-West End Almeida Theatre back in 2003. Together they share a daughter Manon, 14, and son Gulliver, 13. 

McCrory and Lewis led fundraising efforts to provide hot meals for NHS staff during the pandemic. Their work led to almost £1million in donations to the Feed NHS scheme, and partnerships with chains including Leon and Wasabi.

She died aged 52 after a secret 'heroic battle' with cancer last year.

Matthew Lewis 

Matthew Lewis played Potter's pal Neville from 2001 until 2011, but shocked fans with his dramatic transformation in his early 20s (left and right) 

Matthew Lewis played Potter's pal Neville from 2001 until 2011, but shocked fans with his dramatic transformation in his early 20s.

In time for the final film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II, which was released in 2011, the actor was flattered when people were starting to realise he didn't look like nerdy Neville anymore.

Matthew made quite an impact at the world premiere, and reflecting on the spectacle he told Attitude magazine: 'I was 21, I was like "yeah, this’ll be cool!" It was never meant to be a "hey everyone, look at me!" but it was nice to be able to go and be myself.

'And then obviously a lot of attention focused on it, which I didn’t expect at all. I’ve never considered myself to be good-looking at all. Just average.'

Meanwhile his love life is seemingly better than his character Neville's as well. Matthew proposed to his now wife Angela in November 2016 after a whirlwind relationship, just four months after her divorce from her first husband was finalised ,TMZ reported at the time.

The star has kept his love life under the radar over the years and his romance with Angela played out away from the spotlight. 

He first met Angela at a Wizarding World event at Universal Studios in Orlando in January 2016, where she worked.

Robert Pattison

Among those who found global fame following his stint in Harry Potter, and arguably one of the greatest successes from the film franchise, is Robert Pattinson (left, as Cedric Diggory, and right, this year) 

Within the next three years, the London Native would see his star rise at a meteoric rate with the huge success of his leading man role as Edward Cullen in Twilight in 2008 (pictured, with his co-stars) 

Among those who found global fame following his stint in Harry Potter, and arguably one of the greatest successes from the film franchise, is Robert Pattinson.

At 17-years-old, Robert Pattinson was forced to choose between going away to study at university or take on the role of Hogwarts champion Cedric Diggory in the 2005 film Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire.

He choose the latter, and then saw his career soar over the next few years.

Within the next three years, the London Native would see his star rise at a meteoric rate with the huge success of his leading man role as Edward Cullen in Twilight in 2008.

Of course that led to four follow-up films in the Twilight franchise that ended with 2012's The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2.

And he has since scored another role of a lifetime when he signed-on to star as Bruce Wayne/Batman in a new trilogy of Batman movies that will put more of an emphasis on the Caped Crusader's investigative skills.

Jamie Waylett 

Jamie Waylett played the thuggish Crabbe in six Harry Potter movies (left) but did not appear in the last two after he ran into legal trouble for drug possession and was later jailed for taking part in the 2011 London riots right) 

Jamie Waylett played the thuggish Crabbe in six Harry Potter movies but did not appear in the last two after he ran into legal trouble for drug possession and was later jailed for taking part in the 2011 London riots. 

His defence, Emily Dennnett, at the time told the court: 'He acknowledges the seriousness of his actions. He struggled in school, achieving three low grade GCSEs.

'He completed a painting and decorating qualification at college but he is not in work at the moment.

'Although he had the good fortune to be one of the actors in the Harry Potter films he didn't handle the publicity well and began using cannabis.

'His usage increased and that led to a conviction in 2009 for possession and later cultivation.

'Inevitably what followed was his character being written out of the films.

'He has a difficult relationship with his mother, and relies on his grandfather for support.

'He knows the sentence of the court must be on that deters other people from partaking in this sort of behaviour in future.He has kept a low profile since then and has not continued in his acting career.

Maggie Smith 

Iconic: The actress, 86, is perhaps best known as Professor Minerva McGonagall whom she portrayed in the eight film adaptations of J.K Rowling's literary works (pictured 2003) 

Critical acclaim: Maggie starred as Lady Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, on Downton Abbey (2010–2015), for which she won three Emmys

Maggie said she 'didn't feel she was really acting' in Harry Potter or Downton Abbey, adding it wasn't 'satisfying' work (pictured) 

Maggie Smith, 86, already enjoyed a high profile career before landing the role of Hogwarts' transfiguration professor, Minerva McGonagall, in the series.

She was known for her work in 'Othello' (1965), 'Death on the Nile' (1978), 'Sister Act' (1992), 'The Secret Garden' (1993), and 'Richard III' (1995).

She went on to appear in a number of films while appearing in the series, but her most successful role came towards the end of her Harry Potter years. 

Toward the end of the series, she also began starring on the award-winning PBS series 'Downton Abbey'. 

Maggie starred as Lady Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, on Downton Abbey (2010–2015), for which she won three Emmys, her first non-ensemble Screen Actors Guild Award, and her third Golden Globe. 

However speaking in the Evening Standard two years ago, Maggie said: 'I am deeply grateful for the work in Potter and indeed Downton but it wasn't what you'd call satisfying, I didn't really feel I was acting in those things.'

After a long-spanning career in the industry and experiencing both highs and lows, Maggie didn't want to encourage her sons Chris Larkin, 52, Toby, 50, whom she has with her ex-husband Robert Stephens, to follow in her footsteps.

Meanwhile, Maggie recently said she admires any young woman who attempts to join the film industry nowadays because it's all about having to 'strip off every second'.

She said earlier this year: 'I think they are so brave, the young actresses of today. They seem to have to strip off every second. I can't imagine how they cope with it today, I really don't. They are required to do the most extraordinary things.

'If I was asked to start now, I just don't think I could, seriously. It's difficult to imagine myself at that age because girls are starting even younger than how young I was [when I started]. I think it's very, very, very hard now.' 

Richard Griffiths

Richard played Uncle Dursley in five Harry Potter movies. Left: Pictured on set of the 2007 film Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Right: Richard at the The South Bank Show Awards at the Dorchester Hotel in London on January 29, 2008 

Griffiths was also best known for his role as inspirational teacher Hector in Alan Bennett’s The History Boys – which earned him a Laurence Olivier award – and for playing Uncle Monty in cult film Withnail & I.

He was awarded an OBE for services to drama in 2008.

He appeared as Uncle Vernon Dursley in the Potter films and has been hailed as one of the greatest and most-loved British actors by a string of his co-stars and colleagues. 

The 65-year-old, who had struggled with declining health in recent years, is thought to have been admitted to hospital for a heart bypass in March 2013.

He died shortly afterwards from complications from the surgery. 

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw (far right) played Harry Potter's aunt Petunia Dursley in five films

In 2018, the 64-year-old was cast as Carolyn Martens in Killing Eve. Pictured with co-star Sandra Oh

These days, Fiona Shaw is most recognisable for playing Carolyn Martens in the hit BBC series Killing Eve.

A master of both stage and screen, the 64-year-old trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and starred in critically-acclaimed productions of As You Like It and The Taming of the Shrew in the 1980s.

Fiona was cast in the role of Petunia Dursley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in 2001 and reprised her role in four further films.

Harry's unkind aunt and uncle famously locked him away in a cupboard under the stairs in an attempt to contain his magical talent.

Speaking to the A.V. Club, the actress said that her experience of shooting the films was wildly different to other cast members - given how claustrophobic the Dursley house was designed to feel.

The actress said her experience of filming Harry Potter was quite 'isolated'. Pictured at the Disney+ Andor premiere on September 15, 2022

She said: 'Sometimes we would do a scene in the morning, and there would be a big scene in the school in the afternoon and you’d see a thousand children arriving and a thousand parents and a thousand minders—that’s 3,000 people for lunch. 

And we the Dursleys would have had a little lunch, over ourselves in a tiny corner. We tended to be filmed at the beginning of the shoot, and we tended to be absolutely isolated. 

It was a great privilege to shoot with Richard Griffiths, who was always so witty and funny and delightful to be around—and obviously Daniel [Radcliffe] and Harry Melling, who played my son Dudley Dursley. So we were quite a team. We were our own group.'

Robert Hardy

Robert Hardy played Cornelius Fudge in the franchise. Left: The actor starring in the 2003 film Harry Potter at the Prisoner of Azkaban. Right: Pictured at the 2007 premiere of Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix

Robert Hardy became a household name as eccentric vet Siegfried Farnon, whom he played for 12 years in the BBC1 series All Creatures Great And Small, and for his portrayals of Winston Churchill — Hardy claimed he held the world record, for being Churchill in 12 different TV, film and stage productions.

To younger audiences, he was best known as the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, in four Harry Potter films. It was Hardy’s love of ribald stories, told with a gleeful lack of embarrassment, that eventually cost him that role, he believed.

While the young cast were professionals, always ready for a scene, Hardy was more likely to be raising a rumpus on the fringes of the set with old friends such as Maggie Smith and Imelda Staunton.

‘We did not work — at least, I didn’t,’ Hardy once said. ‘We just mucked about and laughed a lot, and got shushed by whichever director it was: “Could you PLEASE be quiet in there!”’

Disgraceful behaviour was sometimes a speciality of his own. He married Elizabeth Fox, a wardrobe mistress, in 1952, but left her and their young son when he took up with his second wife, Sally Cooper. They had two daughters, but were divorced after 25 years.

He died at the age of 91 in 2017.

Natalia Tena

Natalia Tean has said she feels she 'cannot believe' she is 'lucky' enough to be a part of the Harry Potter franchise. Pictured with Brendan Gleeson on the set of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in 2005

In 2007, Natalia Tena (middle) was cast in the role of Nymphadora Tonks (pictured, with James Andrew Eric Phelps and Oliver Martyn John Phelps who played Fred and George Weasley) 

Vardy v Rooney: A Courtroom Drama - starring Michael Sheen, Natalie Tena and Chanel Cresswell - will air on Channel 4 later this year

Natalia Tena made her Harry Potter debut in 2005 when she was cast as Nymphadora Tonks in the fourth installment of the film franchise. 

The 37-year-old said the role was a dream come true for her as she's a 'huge reader'.

Speaking to Grapevine Live, Natalia explained: 'They are incredible, I mean these are things that I cannot believe that I am lucky to be part of. 

'I love the books, I'm a big reader anyway and I love those kind of fantasy stories and it is kind of surreal that I am part of them.'

Tonks became a fan favourite over the course of the following four films but was killed in the final Battle of Hogwarts alongside husband Remus Lupin.

Off the back of her Harry Potter success, Natalia was cast as Osha - a woman of the Free Folk serving House Stark - in Game of Thrones.

Earlier this week, it was announced that Natalia will be taking on the role of Rebekah Vardy in the highly anticipated new Wagatha Christie drama which hits screens later this year on Channel 4.

...And what about series creator JK Rowling?  

The best-selling author pictured with Rupert Grint, Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson in 2001

JK Rowling has been shrouded in controversy over her opinions on trans women's rights. Pictured on March 29, 2022

She's the brains behind of the most successful book series of all time - but in recent years, JK Rowling has shrouded in controversy.

In 2020, the author took issue with an opinion piece that discussed 'people who menstruate'.

She wrote: '"People who menstruate." I’m sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?'

And following this, which caused up an initial stir, she continued to express controversial views on sex and gender in further tweets.

Her comments have long been met with backlash from many fans and followers, as well as some notable names like Jameela Jamil, Sarah Paulson, Jonathan Van Ness and more. 

The stance even sparked major Harry Potter stars such as Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe to speak out against her views.

Emma Watson weighed in on the 'transphobia' row sparked by J.K. Rowling hours after the best-selling author penned an essay defending her stance.

The actress, 30, who became famous as a child for playing Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films based on Rowling's book series, took to Twitter to share her thoughts.

The screen star wrote: 'Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned or told they aren't who they say they are.

'I want my trans followers to know that I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you and love you for who you are.'

She went on to say that she was proud to donate to charities such as Mermaids and Mama Cash before encouraging her fans to do the same.

Emma concluded: 'Happy #Pride2020 Sending love x.'

In response, Daniel also hit out at the author who made him famous, saying: 'To all the people who now feel that their experience of the books has been tarnished or diminished, I am deeply sorry for the pain these comments have caused you'. 

Radcliffe wrote: 'Transgender women are women. Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional health care associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo or I'.

He continued: 'I realize that certain press outlets will probably want to paint this as in-fighting between JK Rowling and myself, but that is really not what this is about, nor is it what's important right now.

'While Jo is unquestionably responsible for the course my life has taken, as someone who has been honored to work with and continues to contribute to The Trevor Project for the last decade, and just as a human being, I feel compelled to say something at this moment.' 

Meanwhile in recent weeks, she has gone to war with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

Ms Rowling branded her a 'destroyer of women's rights' – tweeting a picture of herself wearing a T-shirt with it as a motif last week – and Ms Sturgeon later ratcheted up the row by suggesting that the author is not a 'real feminist' – and that she is.

The author spoke out as she lent her support to campaigners who gathered outside the Scottish parliament to protest against the devolved government's controversial gender reforms wrapped up in the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill.

But Ms Sturgeon bit back, saying: 'Abusive men are a risk to women – that is what we should be focusing on.

'We shouldn't be seeking to further stigmatise and discriminate against a tiny, tiny group in society that are already one of the most stigmatised groups in society.

'There are many, many real threats to women out there right now, from attacks physical attacks, attacks of sexual violence to the removal of abortion and reproductive rights to what women in countries in Iran are going through.

'The threat to women in our society today is not from trans women, it is from abusive men, from lawmakers who want to take away our rights and that is what we should be focusing on.'

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'A complete one-off': JK Rowling leads tributes to Robbie Coltrane who played gamekeeper Hagrid in all eight Harry Potter movies - as he dies aged 72

Harry Potter and Cracker actor Robbie Coltrane has died aged 72, his agent announced last night. 

The Scottish star, whose real name is Anthony Robert McMillan, was best known for playing the beloved Hogwarts gamekeeper Hagrid and starring as criminal psychologist Dr Eddie 'Fitz' Fitzgerald in the 90s ITV drama. 

Tributes to the actor and comedian, who was awarded an OBE in 2006 for services to drama, have begun pouring in, including from Harry Potter co-stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson and author of the novels, JK Rowling.

He won the Best Actor BAFTA three years in a row for his role as Dr Fitz as well as two BAFTA Scotland Awards. He even voiced the BBC adaptation of King Charles' children's book, The Old Man Of Lochnagar.

Coltrane leaves behind his former wife Rhona Gemmell who he married in 1999, sister Annie Rae and his children Spencer, who was born in 1992 and Alice, born in 1998.

He was one of the UK's most-loved comedians before turning to acting, where his first major serious role was playing Fitz in ITV's drama series Cracker. 

His career also saw him star alongside comedy and acting legends including Julie Walters, Ben Elton, Hugh Laurie, Stephen Fry, Emma Thompson and Siobhan Redmond.  

Coltrane's agent Belinda Wright described him as a 'unique talent' and said the star died on Friday. She added: 'Please respect Robbie's family's privacy at this distressing time.'

The 72-year-old was rumoured to have had serious health issues earlier this year after he was forced to pull out of London's Comic Con in June due to medical reasons.

Robbie Coltrane has died at the age of 72, his agent has announced, and is survived by his wife, sister and two children

Coltrane played Hagrid, the Hogwarts Gamekeeper, in all eight of the Harry Potter films and was the first to be cast in the movies after JK Rowling personally picked him out

Coltrane was awarded an OBE for services to drama in the 2006 list of honours (pictured after receiving the OBE)

Robbie Coltrane (right) catches up with Emma Watson, who played Hermione in Harry Potter, at this year's 20th anniversary celebrations

Coltrane character Hagrid was one of the most-loved characters from Rowling's magical series

Coltrane (centre) got his huge acting break in the ITV drama Cracker, in which he starred as Dr Fitz

Stars of the television comedy series Alfresco pose together in London on 25th April 1983. Clockwise from top left: Ben Elton, Hugh Laurie, Stephen Fry, Robbie Coltrane, Emma Thompson and Siobhan Redmond

Coltrane pictured while starring in The Pope Must Die - one of many films for which he received high praise

Robbie Coltrane (left) pictured alongside his Harry Potter co-stars (L-R) Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson and Alan Rickman (behind)

Tom Felton and Emma Watson are among the Harry Potter stars who have so far paid tribute to Coltrane, who played Hagrid 

In a statement, she said: 'My client and friend Robbie Coltrane OBE passed away on Friday October 14. Robbie was a unique talent, sharing the Guinness Book of Records' Award for winning three consecutive Best Actor Baftas for his portrayal of Fitz in Granada TV's series Cracker in 1994, 1995 and 1996 with Sir Michael Gambon.

'He will probably be best remembered for decades to come as Hagrid in the Harry Potter films, a role which brought joy to children and adults alike all over the world, prompting a stream of fan letters every week for over 20 years.

'James Bond fans write too to applaud his role in GoldenEye and The World Is Not Enough.

'For me personally I shall remember him as an abidingly loyal client. As well as being a wonderful actor, he was forensically intelligent, brilliantly witty and after 40 years of being proud to be called his agent, I shall miss him.

'He is survived by his sister Annie Rae, his children Spencer and Alice and their mother Rhona Gemmell. They would like to thank the medical staff at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert for their care and diplomacy.'

Tributes have begun to flood in to the star, including from JK Rowling and Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe.

Daniel Radcliffe has remembered his Harry Potter co-star Robbie Coltrane as 'one of the funniest people' and an 'incredible actor'.

The actor, who starred in the lead role in the fantasy series shared fond memories from set in a statement, saying: '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. 

'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.'

Emma Watson, who starred as Hermione in the Harry Potter films, released a heartbreaking statement on Instagram: 'Rest In Peace, Robbie Coltrane.

'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. His talent was so immense it made sense he played a giant - he could fill ANY space with his brilliance. 

Robbie, is I ever get to ne so kind as you were to me on a film set I promise I'll do it in your name and memory.

'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. You made it a joy to be Hermione.'

Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy, said on Instagram: '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 and looked after everyone around of him. Effortlessly. And made them laugh. Effortlessly. He was a big friendly giant on screen but even more so In real life. Love you mate - thank you for everything.' 

Warwick Davis, who starred alongside Robbie Coltrane as Professor Flitwick in the Harry Potter films, has paid tribute to the 'always jovial' actor who has died aged 72.

He wrote: 'I was saddened to learn that fellow Harry Potter cast member, Robbie Coltrane died today.

'Always jovial, he brought warmth, light and laughter to any set he walked on to. RIP Robbie, Beloved Giant of comedy.'

James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley, said: 'I will miss the random chats about all subjects under the sun.

'And I'll never forget in September 2000, Robbie Coltrane came over to a very nervous 14yr old me on my 1st ever day on a movie set and said 'Enjoy it, you'll be great'. Thank you for that.' 

His twin, both in the franchise and real life, Oliver, said: 'November 2001 - Leicester Square, London.

'Soak this in lads, its like a Rolls-Royce for your first car'! Robbie when he was next to me on the red carpet of the first HP premiere.

'Over the years we had some great chats about history and travel. Rest in peace Robbie.'

Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter films alongside Coltrane, has also paid tribute to the actor following his death. 

'Robbie. Bobser. He called me Space Boy. We shared a love of the final frontier,' Lewis wrote. 

'He didn't give a f*** and it always made you smile. A giant, in more ways than one. We had some times.' 

Harry Potter author JK Rowling wrote on Twitter: '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.'

Stephen Fry starred with Coltrane in the comedy series Alfresco. He said: 'I first met Robbie Coltrane almost exactly 40 years ago,' Fry tweeted. 'I was awe/terror/love struck all at the same time.

'Such depth, power & talent: funny enough to cause helpless hiccups & honking as we made our first TV show, 'Alfresco'.

'Farewell, old fellow. You'll be so dreadfully missed.'

Blackadder co-star Hugh Laurie has also recalled memories of his time with Coltrane. 

'I hope it's OK to spout memories: I used to ride with Robbie Coltrane between Manchester and London in his sort-of-restored MGA,' Laurie tweeted.

'I'd roll him cigarettes while he discoursed on the ways of the world, and I don't think I've ever laughed or learned so much in my life.'

Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley, said she was 'heartbroken' by the news of Robbie Coltrane's death.

'Heartbroken by the passing of Robbie Coltrane,' she wrote.

'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.'

At a reunion show for the whole Harry Potter cast this year, Robbie Coltrane said that people will still be watching the movies in 50 years. He added: 'I won't be here, sadly, but Hagrid will.' 

Tony Robinson, who starred alongside Coltrane in British sitcom Blackadder, has paid tribute to the actor following his death. Coltrane appeared on Blackadder the Third.

'Robbie! You were such a sweet man and so talented as a comic and as a straight actor,' Robinson wrote on Twitter.

'Dictionary was my favourite episode of the Adder ever and it was all down to you mate. Rest well.'

Robbie Coltrane and Rhona Gemmell had two children together and married, before separating and getting a divorce in 2003

Meanwhile actor Robert Lindsay said: 'Now I'm in shock at the death of my dear pal Robbie Coltrane We shared a Hollywood journey that will live with me forever. Another great star to light the heavens.'

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: 'Very sad news. He had such range and depth as an actor, from brilliant comedy to hard-edged drama. 

'I think my favourite of all his roles was Fitz in Cracker. Robbie Coltrane, Scottish entertainment legend - you will be hugely missed. RIP.'

Comedian Reverend Richard Coles added: 'Very sorry to hear Robbie Coltrane has died. 

'We shared a dressing room once and he had the biggest pants I have ever seen, which he wore with tremendous flair. We were friends from then on.' 

Comedian Jack Dee tweeted: 'The brilliant, delightful and ridiculously funny Robbie Coltrane has left us. What a fab actor and man he was. Love to his family. RIP Robbie.' 

Meanwhile the official Twitter account for the Harry Potter films said the team was 'hugely saddened' by the news of Robbie Coltrane's death aged 72.

'He was a wonderful actor, a friend to all and he will be deeply missed.'

The official Twitter account for James Bond has tweeted that Robbie Coltrane's death is 'a tragic loss to the world'.

''Robbie Coltrane's passing is a tragic loss to the world,' the tweet said. 'He was an exceptional actor whose talent knew no bounds.

'He was beloved to Bond audiences as Valentin Zukovsky in Goldeneye and The World Is Not Enough as well as to millions who saw him in his multitude of roles.'

Hollywood star Mark Ruffalo, who worked with Robbie Coltrane on 2008 film The Brothers Bloom, has tweeted a tribute to the actor.

'Oh no, had an amazing time working with him on 'Brothers Bloom.' RIP Robbie,' Ruffalo wrote.

And BAFTA nominated actor Daniel Mays said: 'Incredibly sad to hear about the great Robbie Coltrane. 

'Knock-out in so many performances, Harry Potter, National Treasure, but it was Fitz in TV classic Cracker that stands out for me. No one else could've played that role the way he did. Lead acting at it's finest.'

Coltrane appeared in two Bond films after turning to more serious acting, including The World Is Not Enough (pictured)

Coltrane appeared beside his Harry Potter co-star Julie Walters (right) as Paul Finchley in National Treasure

 Coltrane was born Anthony Robert McMillan on March 30, 1950, in Rutherglen, a suburb of Glasgow, Scotland.

He studied art at Glasgow Art College and made his acting debut as a 12-year-old on stage as Henry V. 

In a tribute today, Sam de Santis, Glasgow School of Art's creative network manager, paid tribute to the 'much-loved' Robbie Coltrane, who attended the art school as a young actor.

'Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.'

Coltrane made his screen debut in Death Watch in 1980, before going on to perform in comic movies including The Supergrass (1985) and The Pope Must Diet (1991).

He married Rhona Gemmell in 1999 but the couple later divorced in 2003. 

He was well-known for appearing on popular comedy shows including The Young Ones and The Comic Strip Presents. 

He starred alongside Hugh Laurie, Stephen Fry and Dame Emma Thompson in the sketch series Alfresco in 1983 to 1984, and reunited with Dame Emma for the BBC miniseries Tutti Frutti where he played Big Jazza, for which he received his first Bafta nomination.

Coltrane gained further fame starring as criminal psychologist Dr Eddie 'Fitz' Fitzgerald in the ITV series Cracker from 1993 to 1995 and in a special return episode in 2006.

The role secured him the Bafta award for best actor for three consecutive years from 1994 to 1996.

He also appeared in two Bond movies, Goldeneye and The World Is Not Enough in the 1990s, starring as a former KGB agent-turned mafia lord. 

Coltrane became the first person to be cast in the Harry Potter series after JK Rowling personally picked him out. 

In his later years, he appeared less frequently in film and television, but returned to be interviewed for HBO's Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return To Hogwarts - where he spoke of how his legacy as Hagrid would live long beyond him. 

Speaking on the special, he said: 'The legacy of the movies is that my children's generation will show it to their children, so you could be watching it in 50 years' time easy. 'I'll not be here sadly...but Hagrid will.' 

In further tributes, comedian Matt Green said: 'Very sad news about Robbie Coltrane. A fantastic, funny, mercurial actor who was indelibly brilliant in Cracker - still one of the finest TV performances I've ever seen. RIP.' 

David Baddiel said: Robbie Coltrane. That makes me very sad.' 

Actor Sanjeev Bhaskar described Coltrane as a 'huge talent across every genre', adding: 'A wonderful, warm, witty and generous soul.' 

It is understood Coltrane was struggling with health problems which forced him to pull out of events in recent years.

In 2019, the actor was spotted using a wheelchair as he awaited for surgery on his knee amid his ongoing battle with osteoarthritis, after doctors told him to lose weight or face a life of immobility.

Prior to his knee operation, a source told: 'Robbie has been in constant pain for years now, with his knee constantly deteriorating.'

'It's left him unable to walk without any assistance and he's been given a wheelchair while he waits to have a special surgical procedure in America to repair his joint.

'It's hugely frustrating for him but he's really hoping to be back on his feet after getting the operation.'

Robbie has been in daily agony with osteoarthritis, a condition that makes the joints become painful and stiff.

The actor also revealed doctors told him to lose seven stone or risk facing life as a 'cripple'.

In 2016, the Scottish actor said of his health: 'I'm in constant pain all day. I had an exploratory operation and they discovered I had no cartilage left in one of my knees. It's completely disintegrated.

'A complete one off': JK Rowling salutes Robbie Coltrane's performance as gamekeeper Hagrid in Harry Potter films while co-star Daniel Radcliffe reveals how the actor 'kept us laughing constantly as kids on the set' following his death aged 72 

By Arthur Parashar

Harry Potter author JK Rowling and lead actor in the film series Daniel Radcliffe have paid tribute to the late Robbie Coltrane after he died aged 72 today.

In a heartfelt statement, accompanied with a touching image of the pair together, Rowling described the late actor as 'a complete one off' as she saluted his performance as gamekeeper Hagrid in the Harry Potter films.

'I'll never know anyone remotely like Robbie again,' she said in a tribute on Twitter.

'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.' 

Coltrane's co-star and lead actor in the movie series, Radcliffe, also paid tribute, praising him for how he managed to keep the youg actors constantly laughing on set.

Radcliffe shared his fond memories in a statement, saying: '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.

'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.' 

In a heartfelt statement, accompanied with a touching image of the pair together, JK Rowling described Robbie Coltrane as 'a complete one off'

Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter, also paid tribute to his co-star Coltrane, remembering him as 'one of the funniest people' and an 'incredible actor'

Coltrane's agent Belinda Wright had announced his death yesterday, describing the late actor as a 'unique talent' and said the 72-year-old Harry Potter star died on Friday.

She added: 'Please respect Robbie's family's privacy at this distressing time.'

Coltrane was rumoured to have had serious health issues earlier this year after he was forced to pull out of London's Comic Con in June due to medical reasons. 

In a statement, she said: 'My client and friend Robbie Coltrane OBE passed away on Friday October 14. Robbie was a unique talent, sharing the Guinness Book of Records' Award for winning three consecutive Best Actor Baftas for his portrayal of Fitz in Granada TV's series Cracker in 1994, 1995 and 1996 with Sir Michael Gambon.

'He will probably be best remembered for decades to come as Hagrid in the Harry Potter films, a role which brought joy to children and adults alike all over the world, prompting a stream of fan letters every week for over 20 years.

'James Bond fans write too to applaud his role in GoldenEye and The World Is Not Enough.

'For me personally I shall remember him as an abidingly loyal client. As well as being a wonderful actor, he was forensically intelligent, brilliantly witty and after 40 years of being proud to be called his agent, I shall miss him.

'He is survived by his sister Annie Rae, his children Spencer and Alice and their mother Rhona Gemmell. They would like to thank the medical staff at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert for their care and diplomacy.'

Coltrane (left) pictured alongside his Harry Potter co-stars (L-R) Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson and Alan Rickman (behind)

Tributes have begun to flood in to the star, from members of the Harry Potter cast and from all of the acting world.

Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter films alongside Coltrane, said: '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'.

And Oliver Phelps, who starred alongside Robbie Coltrane as George Weasley in the Harry Potter films, paid tribute to the actor following his death aged 72.

'Over the years we had some great chats about history and travel. Rest in peace Robbie x'.

Tributes from the acting would have poured in as they remember the late Robbie Coltrane

Meanwhile the official Twitter account for the Harry Potter films said the team was 'hugely saddened' by the news of Robbie Coltrane's death aged 72'He was a wonderful actor, a friend to all and he will be deeply missed.'