The actor set to portray Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series has finally been revealed. Veteran actor John Lithgow will take on the iconic role in Warner Bros.’ highly anticipated project for HBO. Lithgow, known for his unique acting style, is expected to bring a fresh interpretation to the beloved character, sparking curiosity among fans.
John Lithgow will portray the character Dumbledore
John Lithgow has built an impressive career with performances in The Crown, Dexter, and 3rd Rock from the Sun. He has also received numerous accolades, including the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

Dumbledore has previously been portrayed by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon. Sadly, Harris passed away in 2002, and Gambon in 2023. Lithgow now steps into the role, sharing his excitement:
“It was a complete surprise for me. I’m thrilled. Some amazing people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter, so it was a tough decision. By the time the series ends, I’ll be around 87, but I still said yes.”
Warner Bros. and HBO have announced that the new Harry Potter series will be a 10-year project, with each season focusing on a single book. Fans eagerly await Lithgow’s portrayal of Dumbledore, wondering how both longtime followers and a new generation of viewers will respond. The series is expected to premiere in late 2026 or early 2027.