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

Exciting news has arrived for fans of the magical world of Harry Potter as the HBO series embarks on a thrilling new journey. The first six cast members have been unveiled, bringing fresh faces to iconic roles, although we're still eagerly awaiting announcements for key characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. Let's delve into the newly confirmed cast members and explore who will be bringing these beloved characters to life in this eagerly anticipated series.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

John Lithgow Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Jessica Howes

The role of Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts and one of the most powerful wizards in the Harry Potter universe, will be played by the distinguished John Lithgow. Known for his versatile performances in shows and films like 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, and Interstellar, Lithgow is set to bring depth and nuance to Dumbledore's complex character, including his tragic history with Gellert Grindelwald.

Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris in Sorcerer's Stone and Chamber of Secrets, and Michael Gambon in the subsequent films; younger versions were portrayed by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Janet McTeer Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Andrew Crowley

Janet McTeer, acclaimed for her work in Me Before You, The Menu, and Ozark, will portray Professor Minerva McGonagall. As the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress, McGonagall is a pivotal figure at Hogwarts, and McTeer's portrayal promises to capture her strength and wisdom.

Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith in the original series and Fiona Glascott in the Fantastic Beasts series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Paapa Essiedu Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Ruth Crafer

The complex and enigmatic Severus Snape will be brought to life by Paapa Essiedu, known for his roles in I May Destroy You and Black Mirror. Snape, the Potions professor and head of Slytherin, plays a crucial role in the Harry Potter saga, and Essiedu's performance is highly anticipated.

Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions of the character.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Lee Malone

Nick Frost, celebrated for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, will embody the beloved half-giant Rubeus Hagrid. As the gamekeeper of Hogwarts and one of Harry's closest friends, Frost's portrayal is sure to bring warmth and humor to the series.

Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield as the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Phil Sharp

Luke Thallon steps into the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. A relative newcomer, Thallon's performances in The Favourite and Present Laughter showcase his promising talent.

Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

Paul Whitehouse Image Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery/Mike Marsland

BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse will play Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Known for his roles in The Fast Show and The Death of Stalin, Whitehouse is set to bring a unique flair to this memorable character.

Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

The anticipation continues as we await casting announcements for pivotal characters including Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, and many more. The list of characters still to be cast is extensive and includes:

• Harry Potter
• Ron Weasley
• Hermione Granger
• Lord Voldemort
• Draco Malfoy
• Sirius Black
• Remus Lupin
• Dolores Umbridge
• Alastor Moody
• Ginny Weasley
• Luna Lovegood
• Fred Weasley
• George Weasley
• Arthur Weasley
• Molly Weasley
• James Potter
• Lily Potter
• Bellatrix Lestrange
• Neville Longbottom
• Cedric Diggory
• Dudley Dursley
• Petunia Dursley
• Vernon Dursley
• Lucius Malfoy
• Cho Chang
• Seamus Finnigan
• Dean Thomas
• Gilderoy Lockhart
• Dobby
• Nearly Headless Nick
• Moaning Myrtle
• Sybill Trelawney
• Filius Flitwick
• And many more...

For more insights into the world of Harry Potter, 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 series.