As J.K. Rowling once wrote, "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light." While that quote is attributed to Albus Dumbledore, it's a fitting analogy for the entire Harry Potter fandom. On Friday, news broke that John Hurt reportedly died at age 77, according to The Mirror. (Bustle reached out to Hurt's rep, but has not received a response at the time of publication.) In the wake of this news, HP fans are coming together to honor the British actor who played Mr. Ollivander. Using the hashtag #WandsUp on Twitter, fans are raising their figurative wands to pay tribute to the man who gave Harry his first.
Update, Jan. 28, 7:31 a.m. EST: Early Saturday, Hurt's rep released the following statement to Bustle on behalf of the actor's wife, Anwen Hurt:
"It is with deep sadness that I have to confirm that my husband, John Vincent Hurt, died on Wednesday 25th January 2017 at home in Norfolk.
John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts and the most generosity of spirit. He touched all our lives with joy and magic and it will be a strange world without him.
I ask that we are allowed to come to terms with our loss without further intrusion."
Update, Jan. 27, 10:06 p.m. EST: On Friday evening, Hurt's rep confirmed the news to Bustle. This article will be further updated when a full statement is received.
Earlier: While "happiness" isn't quite the right word, this magical moment does show how the fandom is rallying together in an undeniably dark time. It's special to witness, proving just how close-knit a community Rowling created. Not only that, but it's a testament to Hurt's power on screen. He appeared in three of the Harry Potter films, and they surely would not have been the same without him.
Beyond Harry Potter, Hurt had a prolific career. He earned Oscar nominations for The Elephant Man and Midnight Express. He won a Golden Globe for Midnight Express, too. On top of that, he appeared in 2016's critically acclaimed movie, Jackie.
To add just a little bit of brightness to this dark day, here are some heartwarming fan tributes.
A True Legend
Hurt left his mark in both the film industry and the Harry Potter universe.
"The Wand Chooses The Wizard"
A powerful quote from a powerful guy.
A Harry Potter Reunion
Surely Ollivander is up there bonding with Snape. Two Harry Potter stars, gone too soon.
Doctor Who
This tweet also pays tribute to one of Hurt's many other roles. He appeared on Doctor Who.
That First Wand
A single image says so much.
Harry Wasn't The Only One...
Fans also gained something from the character.
It never ceases to amaze me when social media rallies together for support. These tweets are magical. Here's hoping fans continue to put those #WandsUp in Hurt's honor.
