The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. Although fans are still eagerly waiting to discover who will portray iconic characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, we now have confirmed actors for key roles such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others.
Let's dive into who has been officially cast in this new rendition of the Harry Potter saga and who remains to be announced.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, has been cast as Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Known as one of the most powerful wizards in the series, Dumbledore plays a crucial role as Harry Potter's mentor. His backstory includes a tragic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, a pivotal dark wizard. Lithgow's extensive portfolio 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 in Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets, Michael Gambon in the subsequent films, and Toby Regbo and Jude Law as younger versions.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Tony Award and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, a cherished figure at Hogwarts as the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress. Introduced early in the series, she plays a significant role in Harry's life from the very beginning. McTeer's notable performances 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 in the original films and Fiona Glascott in the Fantastic Beasts series.
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will portray Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's complex history with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, adds depth to the series. 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, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke as the younger versions of Snape.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost will take on the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and caretaker at Hogwarts. Hagrid's journey with Harry begins at the Dursleys, marking the start of Harry's magical adventure. Frost is celebrated 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, with Martin Bayfield portraying the young Hagrid.
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Luke Thallon will play Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. A relatively new face in acting, Thallon 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 has been confirmed to play Argus Filch, the strict Hogwarts caretaker often accompanied by his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse is known 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:
The following characters are still awaiting 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 into the Harry Potter universe, 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 follow our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.
