Rupert Grint Embraces Ron Weasley Legacy, Says He'll Never Leave Shadow

Rupert Grint, the actor who brought Ron Weasley to life, has openly declared he is perfectly content to remain in the character's long shadow and would happily return to the wizarding world.

A Lifelong Connection to the Wizarding World

Grint, now 37, was just twelve years old when he first stepped onto the set of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. He went on to play the beloved red-headed wizard in all eight films between 2001 and 2011. Despite building a diverse career since, with roles in M. Night Shyamalan's Knock at the Cabin and the Apple TV+ series Servant, Grint acknowledges that Ron Weasley is a permanent part of his identity.

Speaking at a Christmas lights event in Highgate, he told the BBC, "I'm fine with that. I think it's great. I love meeting people who really felt this was a part of their childhood." When questioned if he was tired of the association, his response was emphatic: "No, absolutely not. I love it."

Passing the Wand to a New Generation

The actor reflected on the profound impact the franchise had on his life. "It changed my whole life quite quickly," he said. "I was a huge fan of the books, so for me it was like stepping into the books, and that was very special." That sense of pride continues as new generations discover the films.

This cycle is set to begin anew with HBO Max's upcoming Harry Potter television series, a "decades-long" project adapting each of J.K. Rowling's seven books. Grint revealed he has followed in his co-star Daniel Radcliffe's footsteps by writing a letter to the young actor taking over his role, Alastair Stout.

"It's quite strange to have the cycle happening again," Grint admitted. "I'm really intrigued what it's going to be like." He did not disclose the contents of the letter to his successor.