Many Harry Potter fans will agree that Robbie Coltrane is a better Hagrid than the actual character from the Harry Potter books. Robbie Coltrane was able to take an otherwise uninteresting Harry Potter character and turn him into a lovable character that everyone seems to enjoy. But, he is more than just a lovable Harry Potter character. Here are just a few little known facts about this Harry Potter actor.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #1: Birth Name
Robbie Coltrane’s birth name is actually Anthony Robert McMillan. Another fun fact is that he chose the name last name Coltrane because of his love of jazz.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #2: Often Appears as a Giant
The Harry Potter series is not the only movie in which Robbie Coltrane has appeared as a giant. In fact, he also appeared as a giant in the movie Van Helsing when he plays the alter ego of Dr. Jekyll. As Mr. Hyde he is incredibly tall, but the character was digitally animated.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #3: Took the Part of Hagrid for One Reason
As with many actors, Robbie Coltrane took the part in the Harry Potter series because his children urged him to do so. Another fun fact is that Richard Harris’ granddaughter swore to never talk to him if he didn’t take the part as Dumbledore.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #4: Was Personally Selected by J.K. Rowling
While it’s uncertain how much of a say-so J.K. Rowling has in the Harry Potter movies, it is a fact that she chose Robbie Coltrane to play the part of Hagrid.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #5: Was the First Actor Cast for the Harry Potter Series
J.K. Rowling liked Robbie Coltrane so much that he was the first person cast for the Harry Potter series.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #6: Has Something in Common with His Harry Potter Character
Unfortunately, Robbie Coltrane used to be a heavy drinker. While you might not see this come through very much in the Harry Potter movies, the books often mention Hagrid drinking heavily. At one point, Robbie Coltrane was drinking a bottle of whiskey every day.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #7: Is a Writer
Another interesting fact is that Robbie Coltrane is a writer. He has written several books on vintage cars, which happen to be one of his passions. Two of his books include Coltrane in a Cadillac and Coltrane’s Planes and Automobiles: Engines that Turned the World.
Little Known Facts about Robbie Coltrane #8: Loves Vintage Cars
One last fun fact is that Robbie Coltrane is obsessed with vintage cars. In one of his books he even discuses making a cross-country trip from Los Angeles to New York.
