STARS close to iconic Harry Potter star Robbie Coltrane have paid tribute to the Hagrid actor following his shock death aged 72.
The Scottish-born actor, best known for playing the Hogwarts gamekeeper in the Potter film franchise, died on Friday (October 14).
His agent Belinda Wright says he will be remembered for his role as Hagrid for many years to come as it led to a "stream of fan letters every week for 20 years".
Harry Potter author, JK Rowling also penned a tribute to the much-loved actor.
She tweeted: "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."
Daniel Radcliffe, who starred as Harry Potter, said: "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."
While James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley, said he will miss the "random chats about all subjects under the sun".
Tom Felton, who starred as Draco Malfoy in the fantasy film series, described Coltrane as a "big friendly giant", and recalled shooting a scene with him during Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone.
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"One of my fondest memories of filming Harry Potter was a night shoot on the first film in the forbidden forest," he remembered.
"I was 12. Robbie cared and looked after everyone around of him. Effortlessly. And made them laugh. Effortlessly."
Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom, described Coltrane as "a giant, in more ways than one" and said they "shared a love of the final frontier".
Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley tweeted "Heartbroken by the passing of Robbie Coltrane.
"Hagrid was my favourite character! Robbie portrayed Hagrid's warmth, sense of home and unconditional love for his students and magical creatures so brilliantly.
"Thanks for all the laughter. Miss you Robbie. Sending love to your family"
Sir Lenny Henry, who voiced Dre Head in Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban, Tweeted: "This is awful news. Rob was the real thing. Condolences to his family. Big love big fella xxx"
Professor Flitwick actor Warwick Davis said he was "saddened" by the news, adding: "Always jovial, he brought warmth, light and laughter to any set he walked on to.
"RIP Robbie, Beloved Giant of comedy.x"
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