The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of its first six cast members. While fans eagerly await the casting of iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, the initial lineup promises to bring fresh life to beloved roles. Here's a detailed look at who has been confirmed and the major characters yet to be cast.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Jessica Howes
Six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award-winning actor John Lithgow will portray Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts and one of the most powerful wizards in the Harry Potter universe. Dumbledore's intricate past with Gellert Grindelwald adds depth to his character, making him a pivotal figure in Harry's journey. Lithgow, known for his versatile roles in "3rd Rock From the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," and many others, is poised to bring a new dimension to this iconic role.
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris in "Sorcerer's Stone" and "Chamber of Secrets," Michael Gambon in the subsequent films, and Toby Regbo and Jude Law as younger versions.
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 head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. McGonagall's introduction in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" marks her as a key figure in Harry's life. McTeer's notable roles in "Me Before You," "The Menu," "Albert Nobbs," and "Ozark" showcase her ability to bring strength and nuance to her characters.
Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith in the original series and Fiona Glascott in the "Fantastic Beasts" series.
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Paapa Essiedu Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Ruth Crafer
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will take on the role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's complex relationship with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, adds layers of intrigue to the series. Essiedu's previous work in "I May Destroy You," "Black Mirror," and "Gangs of London" demonstrates his ability to handle multifaceted characters.
Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone
Nick Frost will bring to life Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper at Hogwarts. Hagrid's role in rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and guiding him into the wizarding world makes him a cherished figure. Frost's comedic background, including roles in "Shaun of the Dead," "Hot Fuzz," and "The World's End," promises to add warmth and humor to Hagrid's character.
Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield as 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. As a newcomer to major roles, Thallon's performances in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter" indicate a promising addition 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-winning actor Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker known for his stern demeanor and his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's experience in "The Fast Show," "Harry & Paul," and "The Death of Stalin" will bring a unique flair 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 further exploration, check out our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, the producing duo leading the charge on HBO's reboot, and our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter series.
