Robbie Coltrane broke down in tears talking about his death, saying Hagrid will live on

LEGENDARY Brit actor Robbie Coltrane has died at the age of 72.

In January, the Harry Potter actor was in tears as he as he told fans "I won't be here, but Hagrid will".

Robbie - who was best known for playing the beloved Hogwarts gamekeeper Hagrid - opened up about the legacy of his character during the special HBO Reunion show nine months ago.

In the emotional interview, Robbie said: "It's the end of an era. Ten years of my life. My children have grown up during it."

Looking tearful, Robbie added: "The legacy of the movies is that my children's generation will show them to their children.

"So, you could be watching it in 50 years' time, easily ... I'll not be here, sadly ... but Hagrid will, yes."

The lovable character starred alongside Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint in the franchise created by JK Rowling.

Robbie also starred as criminal psychologist Dr Eddie 'Fitz' Fitzgerald in ITV's crime drama Cracker.

He also gained worldwide recognition as Valentin Dmitrovich Zukovsky in the James Bond films GoldenEye and The World Is Not Enough.

His agent Belinda Wright confirmed his death on Friday and paid tribute to the "forensically intelligent" and "brilliantly witty" actor.

She said: "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."

She added: "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."

Belinda thanked thanked the medical staff at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert, near Falkirk in Scotland, for their "care and diplomacy".

The actor is survived by his sister Annie Rae, his children Spencer and Alice and their mother Rhona Gemmell.

Coltrane was made an OBE in the 2006 New Year's honours list for his services to drama and he was awarded the Bafta Scotland Award for outstanding contribution to film in 2011.

Stephen Fry paid tribute to the acting legend's "depth, power and talent".

He said: "I first met Robbie Coltrane almost exactly 40 years ago.

"I was awe/terror/love struck all at the same time.