The much-anticipated HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant milestone with the announcement of its first six cast members. While fans eagerly await the reveal of who will portray iconic characters such as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, the series has already confirmed the actors who will bring to life the roles of Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others.
Read on to discover who has been officially cast in this fresh adaptation of the Harry Potter universe, and learn about the characters yet to be announced.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
Six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, John Lithgow, has been chosen to play the iconic role of Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Dumbledore is renowned as one of the most powerful wizards in history and played a pivotal role as a mentor to Harry Potter. His complex backstory includes a tragic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, who later became a notorious dark wizard.
Lithgow's extensive career includes standout performances in shows like 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, and The Crown, as well as films such as Shrek, Interstellar, and many more.
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed Dumbledore in the first two films, followed by Michael Gambon for the remainder of the series. Toby Regbo and Jude Law also depicted younger versions of the character.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Tony Award and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, a cherished figure at Hogwarts and the head of Gryffindor house as well as the deputy headmistress under Dumbledore. McGonagall's introduction in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is memorable, as she joined Dumbledore in delivering Harry to the Dursleys.
McTeer's previous roles include Me Before You, The Menu, and the acclaimed series Ozark.
Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith played McGonagall in the original series, while Fiona Glascott took on the role in the Fantastic Beasts series.
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will take on the challenging role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions Master at Hogwarts and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate relationship with Harry Potter and his parents, James and Lily, adds depth to his character throughout the series.
Essiedu has been recognized for his roles in I May Destroy You, Black Mirror, and Gangs of London.
Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman portrayed Snape, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke playing younger versions of the character.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost will step into the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who serves as the gamekeeper and groundskeeper at Hogwarts. Hagrid is instrumental in rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and initiating his magical journey, eventually becoming one of Harry's closest friends.
Frost is celebrated for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World's End.
Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane played Hagrid, with Martin Bayfield portraying the young Hagrid.
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Luke Thallon will portray Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher during Harry's first year at Hogwarts.
Thallon is a rising star, known for his roles in The Favourite and Present Laughter.
Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart took on this role.
Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse is set to play Argus Filch, the caretaker of Hogwarts, often seen accompanied by his cat, Mrs. Norris.
Whitehouse is known for his work in The Fast Show, Harry & Paul, and films like The Death of Stalin.
Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley portrayed Filch.
Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:
The following major characters from the Harry Potter universe are 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, 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.
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