Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid, often known simply as Hagrid, is a fictional character in the Harry Potter series of novels by J. K. Rowling. He was introduced in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997) as a half-giant who is the gamekeeper and groundskeeper at the wizarding school Hogwarts. He is a member of the Order of the Phoenix and eventually becomes the Care of Magical Creatures professor. Hagrid is portrayed by Robbie Coltrane in all eight Harry Potter films.

Quick Facts

Series: Harry Potter
First: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997)
Creator: J. K. Rowling
Family: Fridwulfa (mother); Grawp (half-brother)
Species: Half-giant
Nationality: English

Lore & Background

Hagrid was one of the first characters Rowling created. The name 'Hagrid' is an Old English word derived from hagridden, meaning 'tormented by hags'—she said it means 'you'd had a bad night' and that Hagrid 'has a lot of bad nights' due to his heavy drinking. In Latin, 'Rubeus' means 'red', chosen because Rowling conceived of Hagrid as an 'earthy, warm, and physical man'. Hagrid was in Gryffindor house during his time as a student.

When he came into possession of an acromantula (Aragog), he was expelled from Hogwarts as his pet was believed to be the 'monster of Slytherin'. Persuaded by Dumbledore (then Transfiguration teacher), Headmaster Armando Dippet agreed to train Hagrid as gamekeeper, allowing the boy to remain at Hogwarts. By the time Harry attends Hogwarts, Hagrid is also the Keeper of Keys and Grounds; the former, according to Rowling, means 'that he will let you in and out of Hogwarts.' Part of his job includes leading the first years across the lake in boats upon their initial arrival at Hogwarts.

Did You Know?

Rowling always planned for Hagrid to survive the series because she had a strong mental image of him carrying a limp Harry out of the Forbidden Forest, 'bringing him back from the dead'.
Robbie Coltrane portrays Hagrid in all eight Harry Potter films; Rowling wanted him from the start, and Robin Williams was rejected due to the 'British-only' cast policy.
Hagrid's mother was the giantess Fridwulfa, and his father was a human wizard—revealed in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.