The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of its first six cast members. While fans eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, we now have insight into the actors chosen for pivotal roles such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others.
Explore the confirmed cast members and the yet-to-be-cast major characters in this eagerly anticipated adaptation.
Confirmed Cast:
John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore
The esteemed six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award-winning actor John Lithgow will bring Albus Dumbledore to life. As the headmaster of Hogwarts, Dumbledore is revered as one of the most powerful wizards and was a crucial mentor to Harry Potter. His backstory includes a poignant relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, who later became a formidable dark wizard.
Lithgow's extensive career includes standout 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 many others.
Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed him in Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets, while Michael Gambon took over for the rest of the series. Toby Regbo and Jude Law played younger versions of the character.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall
Tony Award and Golden Globe Award-winner Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, the beloved head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress of Hogwarts. McGonagall is introduced early in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, playing a key role in delivering Harry to the Dursleys.
McTeer's previous work includes 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 series and Fiona Glascott in the Fantastic Beasts films.
Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will portray Severus Snape, the enigmatic professor of Potions and head of Slytherin. Snape's complex relationship with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, adds depth to his character, making him a central figure in the series.
Essiedu's notable roles include 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 portraying the teenage and child versions, respectively.
Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
Nick Frost will step into the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper of Hogwarts. Hagrid played a pivotal role in rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and guiding him to Hogwarts, eventually becoming one of Harry's closest friends.
Frost is celebrated for his comedic roles in films like 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
Newcomer Luke Thallon will play Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts.
Thallon's previous work includes The Favourite and Present Laughter.
Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.
Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
BAFTA-winning actor Paul Whitehouse will take on the role of Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker known for his constant vigilance alongside his cat, Mrs. Norris.
Whitehouse's notable works 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.
Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:
While the initial cast announcements have sparked excitement, many key characters are yet to be revealed. These include:
- 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 Harry Potter universe, delve into 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 discover our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.
