Robbie Coltrane - sad news
An extraordinary man who loved V8s
Actor Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid in the Harry Potter films, has died aged 72. He also appeared in ITV detective drama Cracker and the James Bond films Goldeneye and The World Is Not Enough. In a statement, his agent Belinda Wright confirmed the actor died in hospital near Falkirk in Scotland. She described Coltrane as a "unique talent", adding his role as Hagrid "brought joy to children and adults alike all over the world".

But his reputation in the UK had already been sealed, notably as the chain-smoking forensic psychologist Fitz in Cracker - one of a number of compelling and larger-than-life characters he made his own.

He cut his teeth in stand-up comedy before branching out into films and television, comfortably fitting into both funny and dramatic roles. And he later rebelled against his middle-class upbringing and fought a well-publicised battle with alcohol addiction.

He was born Anthony Robert McMillan in Rutherglen on the outskirts of Glasgow on 30 March 1950. His parents were both Calvinists. His mother was a teacher, while his father, a doctor, also worked part-time as a police surgeon.


Robbie Coltrane sums up why the V8 inspires affection amongst motoring enthusiasts who can recognise the subtle quaities and pleasures of a V8 engine - magical comments, wonderful sounds.
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"It's a funny old World we live in isn't it? All the personal loves and dislikes and hates - I reckon you know a sharp suite with a four button cuff is something that should be aspired to, whereas if you ever catch me reading Hello magazine you will know it's time to get the men in with white suites. However there is one thing about which there is no such controversy, a thing that inspires affection and admiration - and dare I say love wherever it goes . . . . I'm talking, if you didn't know, about the V8!

Never in the history of engineering has a petrol engine been so perfect and yet so politically incorrect. It's big, powerful, lazy, hopelessly uneconomical and yet one thrum of the exhaust can wring a smile out of the staunchest environmentalist. To quote an engineering phrase - the V8 is the absolute business!

Driving a V8 a big fruity engine - that should not be missed by anyone, just to know how perfect driving can be
." Memorable video