United Kingdom, Nov. 24 -- Rupert Grint has written to Alastair Stout, who will play Ron Weasley in the new Harry Potter TV series.

The 37-year-old actor - who shot to fame when he played the red-haired friend of the titular character in all eight of the movies based on J.K. Rowling's novels - was keen to help "pass the baton" and offer support to the 11-year-old newcomer ahead of his debut in the upcoming big-budget programme.

Rupert told BBC News: "I wrote him a letter, before they started, passing the baton as it were.

"It was really just wishing him all the best with it. I had so much fun stepping into this world, and I hope he has the same experience.£

Rupert admitted when Alistair was announced as Ron alongside Dominic McLo...