In a new interview with
The Daily Record Robbie Coltrane mentions the inspiration for his portrayal of Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films.
Quote:
Of course JK Rowling had Robbie in mind to play Hagrid which Robbie reveals is based on a Hell's Angel from England.
He revealed: "He used to get off of his Harley and walk towards the bar. People would move like ants out of his way. He would grab his pint, find a seat and say: 'I don't know about you, but the petunias this year are very bad.'
"He was a gardener but he had fists like hams. He had a gentle heart.
"When we started talking about it, JK and I talked for three hours. She told me all about Hagrid's past, so I felt very confident about the part."
Robbie also spoke about his kids, his career and being proud of his nationality. Including this nifty quote;
"But sometimes people say England when they mean Britain and I don't agree with that."
The full interview can be read
here.
Source:
The Leaky Cauldron 
Robbie Coltrane talks Hagrid inspiration 
