People Are Remembering Friday Night Dinner's Paul Ritter Also Starred In Harry Potter

Following actor Paul Ritter's tragic death last night, people are reminiscing on some of his most memorable TV and film roles.

As well as playing dad Martin Goodman in Friday Night Dinner, he also starred in Sky drama Chernobyl and in James Bond film Quantum of Solace.

But, in case you need a reminder, the actor had a role in the sixth Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Warner Bros)

Ritter played character Eldred Worple in the film franchise - a wizard who was once a favourite student of Professor Horace Slughorn (Jim Broadbent).

When Slughorn returns to Hogwarts to teach Harry Potter in his sixth year, he invites some of his old students - including Worple - to his 'Slug Club' Christmas party.

In the franchise, Worple is introduced to Harry Potter by Slughorn and tries to convince the boy wizard to let him write his biography.

Twitter/Channel 4)

However, Harry refuses the tempting offer, instead escaping to meet Hermione and Worple does not make any other appearances in the films or books.

It was confirmed this morning that the popular actor had died at the age of 54.

His agent said: "It is with great sadness we can confirm that Paul Ritter passed away last night."

They added that he was surrounded by his wife Polly and his two sons, Frank and Noah when he passed.

As well as his appearance in Harry Potter, Ritter was best known for playing Martin in Channel 4 comedy Friday Night Dinner, which ran for six seasons from 2011.

To celebrate the show's 10th anniversary, the channel was due to air a Friday Night Dinner-themed night in the spring, including a "brand new 90 minute celebratory documentary" named 'You Look Nice: The True Story of Friday Night Dinner'.

According to the synopsis, Paul Ritter was due to appear in it.

While we don't yet have news on whether the doc is going ahead, Tyla has approached Channel 4 for comment.

Channel 4 Tweeted of the sad news of Ritter's death earlier today, writing: "We are saddened to hear of the loss of one of our favourite actors Paul Ritter.

"Our thoughts are will his family, friends and colleagues."

Rest in peace, Paul.

Topics: Harry Potter, Entertainment, TV and Film, TV News

Aneira Davies

Aneira Davies is a freelance lifestyle journalist with a particular interest in interiors and craft. She has written for the Evening Standard, Prima, House Beautiful and Good Housekeeping.

@aneiradavies