Harry Potter TV Series Unveils First Six Cast, Including Hagrid, Snape

Warner Bros. and HBO have unveiled the first six cast members who will bring fresh interpretations to iconic Hogwarts teachers in the highly anticipated Harry Potter series. Today's official announcement puts an end to months of speculation and theories about how the new adaptation will reimagine the beloved story of Harry, Hermione, and Ron.

Leading the cast is John Lithgow (known for Conclave and Dexter), who previously hinted at his role as Albus Dumbledore. Joining him are Nick Frost (of Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz fame) as Rubeus Hagrid, and Paapa Essiedu (recognized from I May Destroy You and Black Mirror) as Severus Snape. Completing the lineup are Janet McTeer (Me Before You, The Menu) as Minerva McGonagall, Luke Thallon (The Favourite, Present Laughter) as Quirinus Quirrell, and Paul Whitehouse (The Fast Show, Alice Through the Looking Glass) as Argus Filch.

(Top, left to right): John Lithgow (credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (credit: Ruth Crafer). (Bottom, left to right): Nick Frost (credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (credit: Mike Marsland). Image provided by Warner Bros.

In a joint statement, showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner and director and executive producer Mark Mylod expressed their excitement, saying, "We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life."

The roles of Dumbledore, Hagrid, and Snape are not just pivotal within the Harry Potter universe but are also significant figures in broader pop culture. Each actor faces the challenge of embodying these iconic characters, a sentiment John Lithgow shared when he confirmed his role earlier this year.

“I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival for yet another film, and it was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid,” Lithgow told ScreenRant in February. “But I’m very excited. Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”

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11 ImagesWhile the Harry Potter series has yet to announce a release date, filming is expected to commence soon. Details about how the series will diverge from both the original novels and the film adaptations remain scarce. However, Warner Bros. has assured fans that the show will explore Harry's story "a little bit more in depth than you can in just a two-hour film." Controversial author J.K. Rowling is involved in the show's development.

For further updates on the Harry Potter series, including casting news for Harry, Hermione, and Ron, stay tuned to our latest coverage.