Exciting news for Harry Potter fans: the HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While we eagerly await the casting of pivotal characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and the notorious Lord Voldemort, the roles of Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others have now been filled.
Read on to discover who has been officially confirmed for this fresh adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter saga, and which characters are yet to be cast.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow, the acclaimed six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, has been chosen to portray Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Dumbledore is widely regarded as one of the most powerful wizards in the Harry Potter universe, serving as a crucial mentor to Harry and possessing a complex history with Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow's extensive portfolio includes notable roles in "3rd Rock from the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," "The World According to Garp," "Perry Mason," "The Old Man," "Footloose," "Terms of Endearment," and "Interstellar," among others.
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed the character in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" and "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," while Michael Gambon took on the role in the subsequent films. Younger versions of Dumbledore were played by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Tony and Golden Globe Award-winning actress Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, a cherished Hogwarts figure who serves as head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress under Dumbledore. McGonagall is one of the first characters introduced in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" as she assists Dumbledore in delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's notable roles include "Me Before You," "The Menu," "Albert Nobbs," "Tumbleweeds," "The Old Man," "Ozark," and "Sorry for Your Loss."
Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith portrayed McGonagall in the original series, and Fiona Glascott played her in the "Fantastic Beasts" films.
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will bring to life Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor at Hogwarts and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate relationship with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, adds depth to his character. Essiedu's previous work includes "I May Destroy You," "The Outrun," "Black Mirror," "Men," "The Lazarus Project," 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 take on the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who serves as the gamekeeper and groundskeeper at Hogwarts. Hagrid plays a pivotal role in Harry's life, 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," "Skeleton Crew," "The World's End," "Hot Fuzz," and "Attack the Block."
Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane portrayed Hagrid, with Martin Bayfield playing the young Hagrid.
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Luke Thallon will play Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. A relative newcomer, Thallon has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."
Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart portrayed Quirrell.
Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
BAFTA-winning actor Paul Whitehouse has been cast as Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's notable roles include "The Fast Show," "Harry & Paul," "The Death of Stalin," "Alice Through the Looking Glass," "Corpse Bride," and "Alice in Wonderland."
Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley portrayed Filch.
Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:
The following key characters are still awaiting their casting announcements:
- 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 both the movies and books, learn about the producing duo leading the charge on HBO’s reboot, and dive into our guide on reading your way through the Harry Potter books.
