Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 8, 2024 11:38 pm GMT
Tom Felton Honors Grandfather’s 97th Birthday with Heartfelt Tribute
Tom Felton, best known for his role as Draco Malfoy in the iconic “Harry Potter” film series, recently celebrated a significant milestone—his grandfather Nigel Anstey’s 97th birthday. The actor shared a touching post on Instagram, featuring a nostalgic photo of Anstey from the set of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” alongside a recent image of the two together.
A Grandslam Birthday Celebration
In his Instagram tribute, Felton included a candid photo of himself with Anstey, where the two appeared to be enjoying a meal together. Anstey, a British geophysicist, held a menu in one hand while flashing a warm smile. The second image showcased Anstey dressed in wizard attire, a nod to his cameo during the Quidditch scene in the film.
Felton’s affectionate caption read: “my Gramps – 97yrs young,” before playfully adding, “He’s a wizard too x.” This light-hearted connection to the magical universe of “Harry Potter” continues a family tradition of involvement in the iconic series.
Remembering a Unique Cameo
Felton previously revealed that Anstey made a cameo in 2001’s “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” This revelation first came to light in a March 2020 Instagram post where Felton pointed out his grandfather’s appearance, stating, “This is Lee Jordan….and my grandpa, my real actual grandpa (on the left) x.”
In the film, Anstey could be seen seated next to the late Richard Harris, who portrayed Professor Albus Dumbledore. He played the role of a Hogwarts professor and appeared in scenes beyond the Quidditch match, including the memorable moment when Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Draco first entered the Great Hall.
A Family Legacy in “Harry Potter”
Felton has often expressed pride in his grandfather’s part in the “Harry Potter” legacy. One year after Anstey’s debut on-screen, Felton enthusiastically highlighted his grandfather’s role once again during a film watch party on Instagram, pointing out, “That’s my grandpa again! The guy with the beard,” sharing the joy of family connections within the beloved franchise.
Bonnie Wright Discusses Future of “Harry Potter”
As Felton celebrates his grandfather’s birthday, another “Harry Potter” star, Bonnie Wright, who portrayed Ginny Weasley, has also made headlines. During a recent event, Wright discussed her hopes for the upcoming HBO adaptation of the “Harry Potter” series, expressing her desire for more nuanced portrayals of character relationships that were mostly overlooked in the original films.
Wright’s Reflections on Ginny and Harry
At a special Back to Hogwarts event held at New York’s Grand Central Terminal, Wright emphasized the importance of showcasing the growth of Ginny and Harry’s relationship, suggesting that the new series provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into character arcs. “I think we could see more of that arc of her character becoming this real loyal sidekick to Harry,” she remarked, adding that fans deserve to see the evolution of beloved characters in greater depth.
Looking to the Future
Wright is not only hopeful for the new series; she is also embracing her nostalgia for the original films. Although she will not participate in the new series, she is set to appear as a guest judge on the Food Network’s “Wizards of Baking,” a baking competition tapping into the magical world established in “Harry Potter.” This show promises to rekindle many memories for fans and cast alike.
As Tom Felton honors his grandfather’s special day and Bonnie Wright looks forward to new beginnings in the “Harry Potter” universe, both actors continue to celebrate the legacy of a series that brings joy and magic to fans around the world.
- People
- Variety
- HBO’s Harry Potter Series
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