Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Movies and Books

As we celebrate the enduring magic of Harry Potter in 2025, it's clear that the series continues to captivate fans worldwide. In honor of this beloved franchise, we've carefully curated a list of the 25 best characters from both the Harry Potter books and films. Our selection process considered fan reactions, the impact on the series, relevance to iconic moments, and overall significance in the Potter universe. While some of your favorites might not appear on this list, we encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below!

Now, let's gather in the Great Hall for this special assembly as we delve into the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books.

Note: This list does not include characters from Hogwarts Legacy and will remain unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter TV series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

Dobby's heartfelt declaration, "Such a beautiful place... to be with friends," in Deathly Hallows Part 1 encapsulates the essence of this endearing house-elf. Initially perceived as an annoyance in Chamber of Secrets, Dobby's noble intentions and unwavering loyalty to Harry Potter shone brightly throughout the series. Though his role was more prominent in the books, his sacrifice to save Harry and friends in the film was a poignant reminder of his bravery and selflessness.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

Gellert Grindelwald, once the most feared villain in the wizarding world, made a brief yet impactful appearance in the main Harry Potter series. His true villainy was showcased in the Fantastic Beasts films, which delved into his reign of terror and complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore. Although the series was cut short, Grindelwald's legacy remains a powerful element of the Potter mythos.

23. Ginny Weasley

Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl in Chamber of Secrets to a fierce leader in Dumbledore's Army is a testament to her growth and strength. Her romance with Harry felt both unexpected and inevitable, weaving a heartwarming narrative of love found within a chosen family. Ginny's determination and bravery make her a standout character in the series.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity made him a memorable character in Chamber of Secrets. His exaggerated tales of heroism and subsequent exposure as a fraud added a humorous yet cautionary element to the series. Lockhart's downfall at Hogwarts served as a stark reminder of the dangers of deceit and self-aggrandizement.

21. Albus Severus Potter

Albus Severus Potter, named after two of the wizarding world's most influential figures, embodies the struggle between fame and anonymity. While his cinematic presence is limited, his story unfolds more fully in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Albus Severus's journey at Hogwarts promises to be a compelling addition to the Potter saga.

20. Molly Weasley

Molly Weasley epitomizes the perfect, nurturing mother, her magic adding an extra layer of warmth and care. Her treatment of Harry as another son provided him with the love and support he desperately needed. Molly's courage and fierce protection of her family, especially evident in her confrontation with Bellatrix Lestrange, solidified her as a beloved character.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, with his grizzled appearance and battle-hardened demeanor, was a formidable presence in the Harry Potter series. Despite his paranoia and eccentricity, his dedication to teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts and his ultimate sacrifice in Deathly Hallows Part 1 highlighted his unwavering commitment to the fight against evil.

18. Minerva McGonagall

Professor McGonagall's strict yet caring nature made her a respected figure at Hogwarts. As the head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress, she balanced discipline with moments of warmth and understanding. Her role in the Order of the Phoenix and her protection of Harry underscored her importance in the series.

17. Dolores Umbridge

Dolores Umbridge's villainy was uniquely chilling, her presence at Hogwarts more oppressive than Voldemort's intermittent threats. Her sadistic punishments and deceptive demeanor made her a character fans loved to hate. Imelda Staunton's portrayal captured Umbridge's essence, though the books painted her as even more detestable.

16. Lucius Malfoy

Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and dark ambitions made him a compelling antagonist. His actions in Chamber of Secrets set crucial events in motion, and his fall from grace in Deathly Hallows Part 1 was a satisfying turn. Jason Isaacs brought a smug confidence to the role, making Lucius a memorable part of the series.

15. Newt Scamander

Newt Scamander's nerdy charm and passion for magical creatures made him a refreshing hero in the Fantastic Beasts series. While the films could have explored his character more deeply, Newt's unique perspective offered a new lens through which to view the wizarding world.

14. Remus Lupin

Remus Lupin's role as a caring mentor and friend to Harry was a highlight of Prisoner of Azkaban. His struggle with being a werewolf added depth to his character, showcasing his resilience and compassion. Lupin's continued involvement with the Order of the Phoenix and his relationship with Tonks further cemented his importance.

13. Luna Lovegood

Luna Lovegood's quirky charm and unwavering support for Harry made her an unforgettable character. Her unique perspective and bravery in joining Dumbledore's Army showcased her strength and loyalty. Luna's endearing oddities and heartfelt moments added a special flavor to the series.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

Rubeus Hagrid's warmth and loyalty made him an essential part of Harry's journey. As a steadfast friend and protector, Hagrid provided Harry with the comfort and support he needed at Hogwarts. His emotional moments and deep connection to the trio resonated with fans, making him a cherished character.

11. Fred and George Weasley

Fred and George Weasley's humor and bravery brought joy and inspiration to the series. Their entrepreneurial spirit and pranks added levity to the narrative, while their courageous actions in Order of the Phoenix and beyond demonstrated their heroism. Fred's ultimate sacrifice was a poignant reminder of the twins' impact.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

Bellatrix Lestrange's unbridled cruelty and relish for evil made her one of the most terrifying villains in the series. Her sadistic acts, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, left a lasting impact. Bellatrix's demise was a fitting end to her reign of terror.

9. Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy's journey from a schoolyard bully to a conflicted young man added depth to his character. His struggle with the task of killing Dumbledore revealed his inner turmoil and humanity. Draco's complex relationship with Harry and his eventual choices made him a fascinating part of the series.

8. Sirius Black

Sirius Black's transformation from a feared fugitive to a beloved godfather was a poignant arc in the series. His bond with Harry provided the young wizard with a sense of family and belonging. Sirius's untimely death left a void in Harry's life, underscoring the character's significant impact.

7. Voldemort

Lord Voldemort's sheer malevolence and relentless pursuit of power made him the ultimate antagonist. His backstory as Tom Riddle and his rise to power added layers to his character, making his presence in the series both terrifying and compelling. Voldemort's fear-inducing reputation was a testament to his impact on the wizarding world.

6. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom's transformation from an insecure student to a brave hero was one of the series' most inspiring arcs. His loyalty and bravery in Dumbledore's Army and the Battle of Hogwarts showcased his growth and determination. Neville's courage in the face of adversity made him a beloved character.

5. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore's role as a wise mentor and powerful wizard made him a cornerstone of the series. His eccentricity and profound wisdom endeared him to fans, while his battles against Voldemort showcased his strength. Dumbledore's death and the revelations about his past added complexity to his character, solidifying his place in the Potter universe.

4. Severus Snape

Severus Snape's enigmatic nature and complex motivations made him one of the series' most intriguing characters. His harsh demeanor masked a deep loyalty and love, revealed in his ultimate sacrifice. Snape's role in the series, masterfully portrayed by Alan Rickman, left a lasting impression on fans.

3. Ron Weasley

Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor made him an essential part of the trio. His journey from a supportive friend to a brave hero showcased his growth and resilience. Ron's relationship with Hermione and his unwavering support for Harry cemented his place as a beloved character.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger's intelligence and moral compass made her an indispensable part of the trio. Her growth from a rule-abiding student to a fearless ally showcased her courage and dedication. Hermione's friendship with Harry and Ron, and her pivotal role in their adventures, made her a standout character in the series.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter's journey from an orphaned boy to the chosen one captivated fans worldwide. His bravery, resilience, and capacity for love made him a relatable and inspiring hero. Harry's struggles and triumphs, supported by his friends and mentors, underscored his central role in the series.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

And that's our selection of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our choices? Or is there a favorite character you think we missed? Let us know in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our interactive tool above.

Interested in more Harry Potter content? Explore our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and other Harry Potter gift ideas. If you're eager to dive deeper into the genre, we've also compiled a list of the best books like Harry Potter.

Upcoming Harry Potter

In addition to the highly anticipated Harry Potter HBO TV show, which promises "big-picture storytelling" and a deeper exploration of the Wizarding World, Warner Bros. has confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its top priorities following the success of the 2023 action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.