British comedy star Nick Frost has revealed he was once in the running to play the beloved half-giant Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter film series. The Shaun of the Dead actor shared this little-known piece of casting trivia during a recent interview.
"I was up for Hagrid," Frost admitted, "but I think I was a bit too young at the time." The role ultimately went to the late Robbie Coltrane, who brought the gentle gamekeeper to life across all eight films.
Frost, now 51, would have been in his early 30s when the first Harry Potter film was being cast in 2000. Coltrane was 50 when he first portrayed Hagrid in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001).
The actor, best known for his work in Edgar Wright's "Cornetto Trilogy" alongside Simon Pegg, didn't express any regret about missing out on the part. "Robbie was perfect," Frost acknowledged. "He was exactly what everyone imagined Hagrid to be."
This revelation has sparked interesting discussions among fans about alternative casting choices for the iconic franchise. While Coltrane's performance remains definitive, some are now imagining what Frost's interpretation of the character might have looked like.
The Harry Potter films went on to become one of the most successful franchises in cinema history, grossing over $7.7 billion worldwide. Coltrane's portrayal of Hagrid earned him widespread acclaim before his passing in October 2022.
