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

The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While fans eagerly await the casting of iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, the series has now unveiled the actors who will bring to life key figures such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others. Dive into the details below to discover who has been officially confirmed and which major roles remain unfilled.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, has been cast as the revered Albus Dumbledore, headmaster of Hogwarts. Known as one of the most powerful wizards, Dumbledore plays a pivotal role in guiding Harry Potter through his journey. His backstory includes a tragic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, a formidable dark wizard. Lithgow, acclaimed for his roles in "3rd Rock From the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," and numerous other films and series, brings a wealth of experience to this iconic role. In the original Harry Potter films, Dumbledore was portrayed by Richard Harris in "Sorcerer’s Stone" and "Chamber of Secrets," and by Michael Gambon in subsequent films, with Toby Regbo and Jude Law playing younger versions of the character.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony and Golden Globe Award winner Janet McTeer will portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, a beloved Hogwarts teacher and head of Gryffindor. As deputy headmistress, McGonagall is a crucial figure from the very beginning, notably involved in delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's past roles in "Me Before You," "The Menu," "Albert Nobbs," and "Ozark" showcase her versatility. In the original films, McGonagall was played by Dame Maggie Smith, with Fiona Glascott taking on the role in the "Fantastic Beasts" series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will play Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's complex relationship with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, adds depth to the series. Essiedu, known for his work in "I May Destroy You," "Black Mirror," and "Gangs of London," steps into the shoes previously filled by Alan Rickman in the original films, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions of Snape.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost, known for his comedic roles in films like "Shaun of the Dead," "Hot Fuzz," and "The World’s End," will portray Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper of Hogwarts. Hagrid's role in rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and guiding him through his Hogwarts journey is unforgettable. In the original films, Hagrid was played by Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield as the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Emerging actor Luke Thallon will take on the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, who has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter," steps into the role previously played by Ian Hart in the original films.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA-winning actor Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's notable roles include "The Fast Show," "Harry & Paul," and "The Death of Stalin." In the original films, Filch was portrayed by David Bradley.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

The casting announcements have left fans eagerly anticipating who will fill the roles of major characters such as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, and many others including Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and more. For a comprehensive look at 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 get our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.