The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of its first six cast members. While we eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, the series has already confirmed the actors for several key roles, including Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and more. Let's delve into who has been officially cast and who is yet to be revealed in this highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter saga.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Jessica Howes
John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, has been cast as the iconic Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Dumbledore is renowned as one of the most powerful wizards in the Harry Potter universe, serving as a vital mentor to Harry. His complex past with Gellert Grindelwald adds depth to his character. Lithgow's extensive career includes 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."
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed him in "Sorcerer’s Stone" and "Chamber of Secrets," followed by Michael Gambon in the subsequent films. Toby Regbo and Jude Law have also depicted younger versions of Dumbledore.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Janet McTeer Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Andrew Crowley
Tony Award and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer will bring to life Professor Minerva McGonagall, the respected head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress of Hogwarts. Introduced early in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone," McGonagall plays a crucial role 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 her in the original series, with Fiona Glascott playing her 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 embody Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate relationship with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, adds layers to his character. Essiedu has appeared in "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 famously portrayed Snape, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke playing his teenage and child versions, respectively.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone
Nick Frost will step into the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant gamekeeper and groundskeeper at Hogwarts. Hagrid's pivotal role in rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and guiding him to Hogwarts makes him a cherished figure. 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 played Hagrid, with Martin Bayfield portraying the young Hagrid.
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Luke Thallon Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Phil Sharp
Luke Thallon takes on the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. A relative newcomer, Thallon has starred in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."
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 winner Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse is recognized for his roles in "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.
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, the producing duo leading HBO’s reboot, and our comprehensive guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.
