In 2025, the Harry Potter saga continues to captivate audiences worldwide, proving its timeless appeal through both its iconic films and beloved books. To honor this enduring legacy, we've curated a list of the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter universe, a selection that celebrates the rich tapestry of personalities that have enchanted fans for decades.
Before unveiling our picks, let's shed light on our selection criteria. Our choices were influenced by overall fan reaction, the impact each character has had on the franchise (considering both the novels and films equally), their relevance to the series' most memorable moments, and their significance within the Potter mythos. If you find your favorites missing from our list, feel free to voice your thoughts in the comments section—we're eager to hear from you!
Join us in the enchanting Great Hall for a special assembly as we explore the 25 best Harry Potter characters from both the movies and books.
Note: This list excludes characters from Hogwarts Legacy and will not be influenced by the upcoming Harry Potter TV series.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
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25. Dobby
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"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." These poignant words from Dobby, the house-elf, in Deathly Hallows Part 1, evoke emotions as we remember his final moments. Initially, Dobby might have seemed an annoyance, especially to Harry at the start of his second year at Hogwarts. Yet, his noble intentions and unwavering loyalty shone through, particularly in his dedication to Harry, whom he served with a heart full of gratitude for his freedom. Dobby's role, while more significant in the books, culminates in a heart-wrenching scene in the films where he sacrifices himself to save Harry and his friends, leaving a lasting impact on fans.
24. Gellert Grindelwald
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Once feared more than Voldemort, Gellert Grindelwald's presence in the Harry Potter series is brief but impactful. His true villainy unfolds in the Fantastic Beasts series, where his reign of terror and complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore are explored. Though the series was cut short, Grindelwald's character remains a pivotal part of the wizarding world's history, showcasing the depth of evil and the power of redemption.
23. Ginny Weasley
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Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl to a formidable member of Dumbledore's Army is inspiring. Her romance with Harry, while seemingly sudden, feels destined and adds a heartwarming layer to the series. Ginny's strength and leadership qualities shine brightly in the books, making her a cherished character among fans who appreciate her growth and resilience.
22. Gilderoy Lockhart
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Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and charisma mask his true nature as a fraud. His tenure as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts is marked by vanity and incompetence, yet his humorous downfall at the hands of Harry and friends adds a comedic flair to the series. Lockhart's character serves as a reminder of the dangers of vanity and the importance of true courage.
21. Albus Severus Potter
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Named after two of the most influential wizards in history, Albus Severus Potter grapples with the weight of his legacy. His story, primarily explored in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, delves into the challenges of living in the shadow of a famous father. Albus's journey at Hogwarts is a testament to the struggles of identity and the power of family bonds.
20. Molly Weasley
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Molly Weasley embodies the essence of a loving, magical mother. Her nurturing nature extends to Harry, treating him as one of her own and providing the warmth he desperately needs. Beyond her maternal role, Molly's bravery shines in her participation in the Order of the Phoenix, culminating in her iconic confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange, showcasing her fierce protectiveness.
19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody
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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled veteran Auror, brings a gritty realism to the series. His return to Hogwarts as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, despite his paranoia and eccentricities, underscores his dedication to fighting evil. Moody's ultimate sacrifice in The Deathly Hallows Part 1 cements his place as a valiant protector of the wizarding world.
18. Minerva McGonagall
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As the head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, Minerva McGonagall balances strict discipline with a caring, almost aunt-like warmth. Her dedication to Hogwarts and the students, as well as her pivotal role in the Order of the Phoenix, highlight her as a pillar of strength and wisdom within the series.
17. Dolores Umbridge
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Dolores Umbridge is a character that fans love to hate. Her oppressive regime at Hogwarts and cruel punishments evoke strong emotions, making her one of the most detestable villains in the series. Umbridge's presence adds a layer of realism to the corruption and abuse of power, contrasting sharply with Voldemort's overt evil.
16. Lucius Malfoy
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Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and influence in the wizarding world make him a formidable antagonist. His actions, such as slipping Tom Riddle's diary into Ginny's cauldron, set crucial plot points in motion. Lucius's fall from grace and eventual redemption add complexity to his character, portrayed brilliantly by Jason Isaacs.
15. Newt Scamander
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Newt Scamander introduces fans to the broader magical world through the Fantastic Beasts series. His unique personality and passion for magical creatures offer a fresh perspective on heroism. Despite the series' premature end, Newt's character remains a beloved addition to the Harry Potter universe.
14. Remus Lupin
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Remus Lupin's role as a caring mentor to Harry during his time at Hogwarts is invaluable. As a werewolf and former friend of Harry's parents, Lupin provides comfort and insight into Harry's past. His bravery and eventual romance with Tonks add depth to his character, making him a fan favorite.
13. Luna Lovegood
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Luna Lovegood's quirky charm and unwavering optimism make her a standout character. Her acceptance into Dumbledore's Army and her unique perspective on the world endear her to fans. Luna's resilience in the face of ridicule and her loyalty to her friends exemplify true courage.
12. Rubeus Hagrid
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Rubeus Hagrid's warm-hearted nature and loyalty to Harry make him an integral part of the series. As a constant friend and protector, Hagrid's emotional scenes resonate deeply with fans, particularly his reflections on the trio's journey. His role as a surrogate family member to Harry is cherished by all.
11. Fred and George Weasley
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Fred and George Weasley bring humor and bravery to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and mischievous antics lighten the mood, while their courageous stand against Umbridge and ultimate sacrifice highlight their heroism. The twins' bond and impact on the story are unforgettable.
10. Bellatrix Lestrange
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Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic pleasure in evil deeds makes her a chilling villain. Her brutal actions, from torturing Neville's parents to murdering Sirius Black, leave a lasting impact. Bellatrix's demise at the hands of Molly Weasley is a satisfying conclusion to her reign of terror.
9. Draco Malfoy
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Draco Malfoy's evolution from a schoolyard bully to a conflicted young man adds depth to his character. Tasked with killing Dumbledore, Draco's struggle with morality and loyalty to his family captivate fans. His eventual redemption arc, while subtle, showcases the complexity of his character.
8. Sirius Black
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Sirius Black's journey from a wrongly accused prisoner to Harry's godfather is both tragic and inspiring. His rebellious spirit and deep connection with Harry make him a beloved character. Sirius's untimely death leaves a void in Harry's life, underscoring the series' themes of loss and sacrifice.
7. Voldemort
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Lord Voldemort, or Tom Marvolo Riddle, embodies pure evil. His relentless pursuit of power and immortality drives the series' central conflict. Voldemort's fear-inducing presence and complex backstory make him one of the most iconic villains in literature and film.
6. Neville Longbottom
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Neville Longbottom's transformation from an insecure student to a courageous hero is one of the series' most inspiring arcs. His bravery in the face of personal tragedy, particularly against Bellatrix Lestrange, cements his status as a true Gryffindor. Neville's journey resonates deeply with fans.
5. Albus Dumbledore
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Albus Dumbledore's role as a wise mentor and leader of Hogwarts is pivotal. His eccentric yet powerful presence, combined with his complex history, adds layers to his character. Dumbledore's sacrifice and the revelation of his flaws make him a relatable and beloved figure. John Lithgow's casting in the upcoming HBO series brings new excitement to the role.
4. Severus Snape
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Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and eventual redemption make him one of the most discussed characters. His complex relationship with Harry and his ultimate sacrifice for love are central to the series. Alan Rickman's portrayal of Snape adds depth and emotion, leaving big shoes to fill for Paapa Essiedu in the HBO series.
3. Ron Weasley
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Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the trio. His journey from a sidekick to a hero in his own right showcases his growth and bravery. Ron's complex relationship with Hermione and his struggles with insecurity add depth to his character, making him a fan favorite.
2. Hermione Granger
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Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass drive much of the series' action. Her evolution from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter for justice is inspiring. Hermione's friendship with Harry and Ron, as well as her romantic tension with Ron, add emotional layers to her character, making her a beloved icon.
1. Harry Potter
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Harry Potter's journey from an orphaned boy to the hero who defeats Voldemort is the heart of the series. His relatable struggles, growth, and ultimate sacrifice resonate with fans worldwide. Harry's imperfections and resilience make him a timeless character, with Daniel Radcliffe's portrayal leaving a lasting legacy. The upcoming HBO series, set to premiere in 2026, will introduce a new generation to the boy who lived.
The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters
And that's our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? Or do you feel your favorite is missing? Share your thoughts in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our handy tool above.
For more Harry Potter content, explore our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other Harry Potter gift ideas. If you're looking to dive deeper into the genre, check out our list of the best books like Harry Potter.
Upcoming Harry Potter
In addition to the Harry Potter HBO TV show, which promises "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is a top priority following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.
