The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the revelation of the first six cast members. While fans eagerly await announcements for key characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, we now have a glimpse of who will be portraying iconic figures such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others. Dive into the details of the confirmed cast and learn about the roles yet to be filled.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Jessica Howes
The role of Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts and a pivotal mentor to Harry Potter, will be brought to life by the six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award-winning actor, John Lithgow. Dumbledore is renowned for his immense magical prowess and a complex history involving his tragic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, a notorious dark wizard. Lithgow, celebrated for his versatile performances in shows like 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, and films like Shrek and Interstellar, is set to add depth to this iconic character.
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris in Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets, and Michael Gambon in the subsequent films; younger versions were portrayed by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Janet McTeer Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Andrew Crowley
Tony Award and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, the esteemed head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. McGonagall, introduced early in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, is a character beloved for her stern yet caring nature. McTeer's previous roles in Me Before You, The Menu, and Ozark showcase her ability to portray multifaceted characters, making her an excellent choice for McGonagall.
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 take on the complex role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate history with Harry Potter and his parents, James and Lily, adds layers to his character, making him a central figure in the series. Essiedu's notable performances in I May Destroy You and Black Mirror demonstrate his capability to bring depth to such a nuanced role.
Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying the teenage and child versions, respectively.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone
Nick Frost will portray Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who serves as the gamekeeper and groundskeeper at Hogwarts. Hagrid plays a crucial role in Harry's journey, starting from rescuing him from the Dursleys to becoming one of his closest friends. Frost, known for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, brings a unique charm to the character.
Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield playing 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. Thallon, a newcomer to the acting scene, has appeared in The Favourite and Present Laughter, showcasing his potential to bring fresh energy to the character.
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-winning actor Paul Whitehouse is set to portray Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often accompanied by his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's experience in The Fast Show and films like The Death of Stalin and Alice in Wonderland will bring humor and depth to Filch's character.
Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley.
Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:
- Harry Potter
- Ron Weasley
- Hermione Granger
- Lord Voldemort
- Draco Malfoy
- Sirius Black
- Remus Lupin
- Dolores Umbridge
- Alastor Moody
- Ginny Weasley
- Luna Lovegood
- Fred Weasley
- George Weasley
- Arthur Weasley
- Molly Weasley
- James Potter
- Lily Potter
- Bellatrix Lestrange
- Neville Longbottom
- Cedric Diggory
- Dudley Dursley
- Petunia Dursley
- Vernon Dursley
- Lucius Malfoy
- Cho Chang
- Seamus Finnigan
- Dean Thomas
- Gilderoy Lockhart
- Dobby
- Nearly Headless Nick
- Moaning Myrtle
- Sybill Trelawney
- Filius Flitwick
- And many more...
For more insights, explore 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 discover our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.
