Nick Frost on HBO's Potter Series: 'Not Copying, Not Robbie' Hagrid

Nick Frost shares his initial reflections on taking up the role of Hagrid in HBO’s forthcoming Harry Potter television adaptation, explaining that he aims to honor the character without merely replicating past portrayals.

The actor, known for Hot Fuzz and the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, mentioned he has already started pre-production work for his performance as Hagrid. He has been considering how to make his version of the beloved Hogwarts groundskeeper distinct, yet still recognizable to longtime fans.

"I have tremendous respect for what came before—Robbie Coltrane's incredible performance—but I won’t be trying to imitate Robbie," Frost told Collider.

"I want to approach the role not as something ‘different’ just for the sake of it," he continued. "You have to stay true to the source material, but within that framework, there’s room for subtle, personal touches."

The late Robbie Coltrane played Hagrid across all eight Harry Potter films and is said to have inspired the character’s original depiction in J.K. Rowling’s books.

Frost has committed to portraying Hagrid for the next decade as the TV series adapts each novel into its own full season.

"I’ve had the chance to visit some sets, and they’re growing a Hagrid beard," Frost separately told ScreenRant. It remains unclear whether this refers to a custom prosthetic beard being crafted for him or an actual beard being grown to later be applied during filming.

Last month, the three young actors cast in the series' lead roles were announced: newcomers Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley.

"As a father myself, I'll feel very protective of these children," Frost said of the trio. "That’s actually a core part of Hagrid’s relationship with them—he’s fiercely protective. I’m genuinely excited to explore that dynamic."

Other confirmed cast members include John Lithgow (Conclave, Dexter) in the pivotal role of Albus Dumbledore, alongside Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You, Black Mirror) as Severus Snape.

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Janet McTeer (Me Before You, The Menu) will play Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon (The Favourite, Present Laughter) is Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show, Alice Through the Looking Glass) will portray the long-suffering caretaker Argus Filch.

"I've always seen Hagrid as a kind, lost, occasionally volatile, funny, warm-hearted child at heart," Frost concluded. "The advantage of adapting one book per season is that I’ll have more time to explore those layers. I can’t wait. He’s humorous—I want to bring out his fun, cheeky, fearful, protective, and childlike qualities. That’s the plan."

Filming for the first season of the Harry Potter TV series is expected to begin this year, with a planned debut on HBO in early 2027.