HBO's Harry Potter Reboot: Confirmed Cast and Characters Revealed

Exciting news for Harry Potter fans! The HBO Harry Potter TV series has hit a major milestone with the announcement of its first six cast members. While we eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, the roles of Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others have now been filled. Let’s dive into the details of these exciting casting choices and see who is yet to join the magical world of Hogwarts.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

John Lithgow Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Jessica Howes

The role of Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts and one of the most powerful wizards of all time, will be played by the acclaimed John Lithgow. With six Emmy Awards and two Tony Awards to his name, Lithgow brings a wealth of experience to the role. Known for his versatile performances in shows like 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, and The Crown, as well as films such as Shrek and Interstellar, Lithgow is poised to bring depth to Dumbledore’s complex history, including his tragic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald.

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. Younger versions of Dumbledore were played by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Janet McTeer Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Andrew Crowley

Janet McTeer, a Tony and Golden Globe Award winner, will take on the role of Professor Minerva McGonagall. As the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress, McGonagall is a pivotal figure at Hogwarts, known for her strict yet caring nature. McTeer's previous work in films like Me Before You and The Menu, along with her roles in series such as Ozark, makes her a fitting choice for this beloved character.

Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith portrayed her in the original films, with Fiona Glascott taking on the role 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 bring to life Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate backstory and his complex relationship with Harry Potter and his parents are central to the series. Essiedu, known for his roles in I May Destroy You and Black Mirror, is set to add a new dimension to this multifaceted character.

Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? The role was masterfully played by Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions of Snape.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone

Nick Frost, known for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, will portray Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who serves as Hogwarts' gamekeeper. Hagrid’s warmth and loyalty make him a fan favorite, and Frost's experience in both comedy and heartfelt roles will bring a unique touch to this character.

Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane brought Hagrid to life, with Martin Bayfield playing the younger version.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Phil Sharp

Luke Thallon steps into the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. As a relatively new actor with roles in The Favourite and Present Laughter, Thallon is set to bring a fresh perspective to this character.

Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart portrayed the character.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

Paul Whitehouse Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Mike Marsland

BAFTA-winning actor Paul Whitehouse will play Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Known for his work in The Fast Show and The Death of Stalin, Whitehouse’s comedic timing and acting prowess will add a unique flavor to this grumpy yet memorable character.

Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley took on the role.

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 into the magical world of Harry Potter, check out 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.