HBO has officially announced the cast for its long-awaited Harry Potter series. Albus Dumbledore will be portrayed by John Lithgow, best known for his role in The Crown. Janet McTeer has been cast as Minerva McGonagall, while Paapa Essiedu will take on the role of Severus Snape. Nick Frost has been chosen to play Rubeus Hagrid.
Meet the Harry Potter Series Cast
Other cast members joining the series include Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell and Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch. These actors will appear as series regulars throughout the show.
Confirmed Cast Members:
- John Lithgow – Albus Dumbledore
- Janet McTeer – Minerva McGonagall
- Paapa Essiedu – Severus Snape
- Nick Frost – Rubeus Hagrid
- Luke Thallon – Quirinus Quirrell
- Paul Whitehouse – Argus Filch
Producers Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod expressed their excitement, stating that these talented actors will bring a fresh take on the beloved characters. An open casting call for the lead roles—Harry, Ron, and Hermione—was held last fall, drawing over 30,000 applications. However, the actors playing these iconic characters have not yet been announced.
According to HBO’s official statement, the series will be a faithful adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s original books. Each season will explore different corners of the wizarding world and present Harry Potter’s adventures to both new and longtime fans.
Warner Bros. and HBO confirmed that the new Harry Potter series is planned as a 10-year project, with each season focusing on a single book. How Lithgow’s Dumbledore and the rest of the cast interpret their roles remains a major point of curiosity for fans and new viewers alike. The series is expected to premiere in late 2026 or early 2027.
What do you think? Are these casting choices right for the Harry Potter universe? Do you believe the new series will live up to expectations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
