We've reached an exciting milestone in the development of the HBO Harry Potter TV series with the announcement of the first six cast members. While we eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, we now have insight into who will bring to life key figures such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others.
Read on to discover the actors officially confirmed for this new adaptation of the Harry Potter universe, as well as a list of major characters still awaiting casting.
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 Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Known for his wisdom and power, Dumbledore plays a crucial role in guiding Harry Potter. His backstory, including his complex relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, adds depth to the narrative. Lithgow's notable roles include 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, Shrek, and many more.
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris in Sorcerer's Stone and Chamber of Secrets, Michael Gambon in the rest of the original series, and Toby Regbo and Jude Law as younger versions of the character.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Janet McTeer Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Andrew Crowley
Tony and Golden Globe Award winner Janet McTeer will portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. Introduced early in the series, McGonagall is a pivotal figure in Harry's journey. McTeer's previous work includes Me Before You, The Menu, and Ozark.
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
Paapa Essiedu Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Ruth Crafer
Emmy-nominated Paapa Essiedu will embody Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions master and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate ties to Harry and his parents make him a central figure in the saga. Essiedu's notable roles include I May Destroy You and Black Mirror.
Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions of the character.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone
Nick Frost will bring to life Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and Hogwarts groundskeeper who introduces Harry to the wizarding world. Frost is known for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz.
Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield as young Hagrid.
Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell
Luke Thallon Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Phil Sharp
Luke Thallon will play Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. 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
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 known for The Fast Show and The Death of Stalin.
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, learn about the producing duo leading HBO's reboot, and find our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter series.
