Exciting news for Harry Potter fans: HBO has unveiled the first six cast members for their highly anticipated TV series adaptation. While we eagerly await announcements for iconic characters such as Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, the casting for key figures like Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others has been confirmed. Let's dive into who will be bringing these beloved characters to life in this new rendition of the magical world.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, will portray Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Dumbledore, one of the most powerful wizards in the Harry Potter universe, was a crucial mentor to Harry and had a complex history with the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow is well-known for his roles in "3rd Rock From the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," and many more.
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, a Tony and Golden Globe Award winner, will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. A beloved figure from the start, McGonagall was instrumental in delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's previous credits include "Me Before You," "The Menu," "Albert Nobbs," and "Ozark."
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
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will take on the role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's deep connections to Harry and his parents, James and Lily, make him a pivotal character throughout the series. Essiedu has appeared in "I May Destroy You," "The Outrun," and "Black Mirror," among others.
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 will bring to life Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper of Hogwarts. Hagrid played a crucial role in Harry's journey, from rescuing him from the Dursleys to becoming one of his closest friends. Frost is known for his comedic roles in "Shaun of the Dead," "The World’s End," and "Hot Fuzz."
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 will portray Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, a rising star, has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."
Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.
Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse will play Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse is known for "The Fast Show," "Harry & Paul," and "The Death of Stalin."
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.