Every actor confirmed to appear in HBO’s new ‘Harry Potter’ series, so far
With a new “Harry Potter” show on the horizon, rumors of casting decisions have run rampant on the Internet as fans have been waiting to find out who will take on the beloved roles next.
The HBO series’ official description describes the project as a “faithful adaptation” of the books by J. K. Rowling.
“Exploring every corner of the wizarding world, each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and its incredible adventures to new and existing audiences,” HBO said in a press release.
The show, with Rowling set to serve as executive producer, also promises to “feature an exciting and talented cast to lead a new generation of fandom” and will be available exclusively on Max.
But just because new actors are taking up the mantle, the original eight films won’t be forgotten. As HBO notes, “The original, classic, and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch around the world.”
Here’s a complete list of the cast of HBO’s “Harry Potter” show, so far.
Who has been cast in HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ show?
John Lithgow
Lithgow is set to take on the role of Hogwarts Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, or, as true fans know him, Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore.
Known for his roles in “The Crown” and “Conclave,” Lithgow revealed his casting to ScreenRant before HBO made it official.
“It was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid. But I’m very excited,” he told the outlet. “Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”
In the film adaptions, Richard Harris played Dumbledore in the first two movies until his death in October 2002. Michael Gambon then took over the role until the final film, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.” Gambon died in September 2023 at age 82.
Jude Law played a younger Dumbledore in the “Fantastic Beasts” film series.
Janet McTeer
McTeer is set to step into the role of transfiguration professor Minerva McGonagall, who is also the head of Gryffindor House and the deputy headmistress.
Known for “Tumbleweeds” and “Albert Nobbs,” McTeer will step into the role previously played by Maggie Smith, who died in 2024 at age 89, as the brave, Quidditch- and-biscuit-loving McGonagall.
Paapa Essiedu
Essiedu has been announced to play anti-hero potions professor Severus Snape.
Snape, the head of Slytherin house, was once a childhood enemy of Harry’s dad, James, and always loved Harry’s mom, Lily. The brooding Snape was initially portrayed by Alan Rickman, who died in 2016.
Essiedu is known for “I May Destroy You” and “The Outrun.”
Nick Frost
Frost will play the pink umbrella-touting Hogwarts gamekeeper and groundskeeper Rubeus Hagrid.
Previously played by Robbie Coltrane, who died in 2022, Frost takes up the (half) giant mantel after appearing in works like “Shaun of the Dead” and “Paul.”
Luke Thallon
Thallon has been cast to play professor Quirinus Quirrell.
In the first book of the series, professor Quirrell teaches Defense Against the Dark Arts, a position rumored to be cursed.
The role was initially played by Ian Hart, but the torch is now being passed to Thallon, known for “Present Laughter.”
Paul Whitehouse
Whitehouse will take up the role of Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker who seems to only have affection for his pet cat, Mrs. Norris.
The role was originated by David Bradley but will now be taken on by Whitehouse, who is known for “The Fast Show” and “The Death of Stalin.”
