Three Similarities Between Molly Weasley and the Muggle Behind Her

Molly Weasley is undoubtedly one of everyone’s favorite Harry Potter characters. With so many families in Rowling’s universe lacking normality, it is refreshing to see a typical happy household; especially one with such a great mother at the head.

One person who doesn’t get much credit, however, is Julie Walters. She is the talented actress who portrayed Molly in the films. Walters was able to turn a supporting character who could have easily been forgotten into a major face of the franchise.

Needless to say, she was perfect for the role. She bore many similarities to the great witch whom we all love. Both the wizard and Muggle sides deserve recognition, so without further ado, here are three parallels between Julie Walters and Molly Weasley.

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1) They are loving to all who are in need.

In the first few books and movies, we see Harry Potter get abused and neglected by the Dursleys. Molly Weasley doesn’t let that go unnoticed. Molly takes in Harry as if he were her own child. She feeds him, houses him, and even knits him one of her special holiday sweaters.

Julie Walters, on the other hand, is just as caring to everyone she meets. In a recent interview with the Telegraph, Walters confessed to being maybe a bit too loving to her male patients back in her nursing days. She would make sure they got the best treatment possible, in the form of telling jokes, stealing grapes, and writing love letters to the patients after their stay.

I fell in love with a lot of the male patients, too – the hospital had to actually ask me to stop writing so many letters to them after they’d left.

2) They aren’t afraid to stand for what they believe in.

Molly Weasley, although loving, showed throughout the Harry Potter series she wasn’t afraid to fight when she was needed. One great example of this is during the Battle of Hogwarts, where Molly is able to kill Bellatrix Lestrange. She didn’t back down when times got tough, which is extremely admirable.

Of course, Walters didn’t have to fight in any magical war, but she has stood up for equally admirable causes during her life. One of the most notable might be her statement against sexism and ageism, specifically in the film industry. Both of those topics are extremely hard to talk about, especially when they involve the people who employ her. Walters brought up how older men and younger women always seem to be paired up on news programs and how roles disappear for women reaching a higher age. Bringing up this sensitive issue is extremely brave.

3) They bring much-needed humor when times get hard.

Across the series, Molly would often lighten the mood, even when the situation wasn’t great. Although strict while dealing with her children’s misdoings, her snarky remarks back and forth to them gave the readers and watchers a chuckle. Whether it was scolding Fred and George for Apparating way too much, or sending a Howler to Ron for stealing the car, these moments helped make Harry Potter what it is.

Back in the Muggle world, Walters has been faced with a lot of adversity. One of her hardest moments must be having to mourn the loss of her great friend Victoria Wood. In her first interview after her friend’s passing, however, she was able to make jokes and stay happy. She chose to look back at Wood’s life with happiness, instead of focusing on the sorrow. Her strength and positive attitude undoubtedly helped others through that terrible time.

We can look forward to Walters’ new film Paddington 2, coming out later this year, where she plays the lovable housekeeper Mrs. Bird.