Exciting news for Harry Potter fans: HBO's eagerly awaited TV series has reached a significant milestone by revealing the first six cast members. While we eagerly await announcements for iconic characters such as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and the sinister Lord Voldemort, we now have insight into who will portray beloved figures like Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, and Severus Snape. Dive in to discover the confirmed cast and the roles yet to be filled.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
The legendary John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, will bring to life the iconic Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts' cherished headmaster. Dumbledore, known as one of the most formidable wizards, played a pivotal role as Harry's mentor and had a compelling backstory entwined with the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow, renowned for his roles in 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, and classics like Shrek and Interstellar, is set to add depth to this revered 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
Tony and Golden Globe Award winner Janet McTeer will portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet caring head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress. McGonagall's first appearance in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone marks her as an integral part of Hogwarts from the very beginning. McTeer's past roles in Me Before You, The Menu, and Ozark showcase her versatility, promising a compelling portrayal of McGonagall.
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
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu is set to embody the enigmatic Severus Snape, Hogwarts' Potions professor and Slytherin head. Snape's complex relationship with Harry and his past with Harry's parents, James and Lily, adds depth to the series. Essiedu, known for his work in I May Destroy You and Black Mirror, brings a fresh take to this multifaceted character.
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 enchant fans as Rubeus Hagrid, the lovable half-giant who introduces Harry to the magical world. Known for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, Frost is sure to bring warmth and humor to Hagrid's character, a key friend to Harry throughout his journey.
Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield portraying the young Hagrid.
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Emerging talent Luke Thallon takes on the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher in Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, who has appeared in The Favourite and Present Laughter, is set to bring a new perspective to this intriguing character.
Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.
Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, Hogwarts' vigilant caretaker, often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse, known for his work in The Fast Show and The Death of Stalin, adds his unique flair to the character, known for his strict enforcement of school rules.
Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley.
Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:
The anticipation builds as we await casting announcements for key characters such as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and the dark Lord Voldemort, among others like Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, and Remus Lupin. The list of roles yet to be filled includes:
- 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 on the magical world of Harry Potter, explore our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, the producing duo that will be leading the charge on HBO's reboot, and our comprehensive guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.
