What if the Actor Who Played Ron Was Really Attractive?

The idea of an attractive Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter series might have dramatically altered the dynamics of the Golden Trio. Rupert Grint, the actor well-known for portraying Ron, is certainly handsome, but it’s his character's personality that has drawn both admiration and criticism. If Ron had been more visually appealing, the fanbase might have expanded significantly, especially among those who were initially uninterested in his character due to his less-than-stellar appearance.

The Impact on Fan Base

If Ron Weasley had been played by someone as attractive as Malachy McKinney, the movie adaptation Harry Potter would likely have attracted a broader audience. Fans who were previously ambivalent towards Ron because of his looks would have become more invested. Ron’s iconic turnaround from the bullied kid to the brave and loyal friend might have resonated even more deeply, potentially making him the most adored character in the series. This could have led to more fan engagement and discussions about Ron’s role in the saga, such as the ship theorizing that may never have garnered as much attention.

Additionally, Ron’s romantic angle would have become even more heated. Instead of the relatively plain love triangle with Harry and Draco, a more attractive Ron could potentially win the hearts of his crushes. This would push the ship theories like Romione (Ron and Hermione) to new heights, possibly even making it a historical milestone for fan fiction.

The Merits and Flaws of the Character

However, it’s crucial to note that Ron’s character is more defined by his personality than by his looks. Rupert Grint’s portrayal, while not exceptional, brought depth to the character, making him multi-dimensional rather than one-dimensional. His shyness, cowardice, and social awkwardness made Ron an even more relatable and lovable character. While his personality lacks in glamour and brilliance, it also adds a layer of humor and vulnerability that supplements the story.

Even with a more attractive portrayal, Ron’s behavior and reactions could still be seen as unconvincing by some. His over-reliance on Hermione and his tendency to cry at the slightest provocation would likely remain a point of criticism. Moreover, his relationship with Hermione, although necessary for the plot, could still be viewed as unflattering. As it stands, Ron’s bumbling moments are what make the bond between him and Hermione so endearing and realistic.

The Role of Realism in Fan Fiction

It’s possible that if the character Ron had been more authentic to the books, Rupert Grint would have been given more opportunities to showcase his full potential. The books present a much more complex and relatable character, and this authenticity might have brought a new dimension to the series. However, it’s also true that certain aspects of the character, such as his cowardice and lack of bravery, might have been less palatable to audiences.

Overall, the question of whether Ron should have been more attractive is a matter of personal interpretation. What’s clear is that the character's depth and relatability come from his personality more so than his physical appearance. If a different actor portrayed Ron with a more compelling personality, such as being sassy, witty, and loyal, the impact on the fandom would have been immense. It would have created a new narrative and possibly changed the trajectory of the series in ways that neither the books nor the original movies could have achieved.