Exciting news for Harry Potter fans! The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While we eagerly await the casting of iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, we now have the pleasure of knowing who will portray Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others. Let's delve into the newly revealed cast and the roles they'll be taking on in this fresh adaptation of the beloved series.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Jessica Howes
John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, has been cast as Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Known as one of the most powerful wizards, Dumbledore plays a pivotal role in mentoring Harry Potter. His backstory includes a complex relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, a significant dark wizard. Lithgow's extensive career includes standout roles in 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, Shrek, and many more, making him a compelling choice for this iconic role.
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed him in Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets, followed by Michael Gambon in the subsequent films. Younger versions were played by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Janet McTeer Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Andrew Crowley
Janet McTeer, a Tony and Golden Globe Award winner, will bring Professor Minerva McGonagall to life. McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress, is introduced early in the series, assisting Dumbledore in delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's previous work includes Me Before You, The Menu, and Ozark, ensuring a strong performance in this beloved role.
Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith in the original series and Fiona Glascott in the Fantastic Beasts films.
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Paapa Essiedu Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Ruth Crafer
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will portray Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate relationship with Harry and his parents adds depth to the series. Essiedu's notable roles include I May Destroy You, Black Mirror, and The Lazarus Project, promising a nuanced portrayal of this complex character.
Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke playing younger versions.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone
Nick Frost will take on the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper of Hogwarts. Hagrid's pivotal role in Harry's journey, starting with his rescue from the Dursleys, cements his status as one of Harry's closest friends. Frost, known for his comedic roles in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, brings his charm to this heartwarming character.
Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield as the young Hagrid.
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Luke Thallon Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Phil Sharp
Luke Thallon steps into the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. A relative newcomer, Thallon has appeared in The Favourite and Present Laughter, bringing fresh energy to the series.
Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.
Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
Paul Whitehouse Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Mike Marsland
BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, the caretaker of Hogwarts, often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's diverse roles in The Fast Show, The Death of Stalin, and more ensure a memorable performance in this quirky role.
Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley.
Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:
Harry PotterRon WeasleyHermione GrangerLord VoldemortDraco MalfoySirius BlackRemus LupinDolores UmbridgeAlastor MoodyGinny WeasleyLuna LovegoodFred WeasleyGeorge WeasleyArthur WeasleyMolly WeasleyJames PotterLily PotterBellatrix LestrangeNeville LongbottomCedric DiggoryDudley DursleyPetunia DursleyVernon DursleyLucius MalfoyCho ChangSeamus FinniganDean ThomasGilderoy LockhartDobbyNearly Headless NickMoaning MyrtleSybill TrelawneyFilius FlitwickAnd many more...
For more insights, check out our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, learn about the producing duo leading the charge on HBO’s reboot, and explore our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.
