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

Warner Bros. and HBO have officially unveiled the first six actors who will bring new life to iconic Hogwarts teachers in the eagerly anticipated Harry Potter series. This announcement comes after months of speculation and rumors about how the reimagined tale of Harry, Hermione, and Ron will unfold.

John Lithgow, renowned for his roles in Conclave and Dexter, has confirmed his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore, a role he previously hinted at. Joining him are some highly anticipated names, including Nick Frost of Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz fame, who will step into the oversized shoes of Rubeus Hagrid, and Paapa Essiedu, acclaimed for his work in I May Destroy You and Black Mirror, who will take on the complex character of Severus Snape.

Completing the initial cast announcement 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, along with director and executive producer Mark Mylod, expressed their excitement about the cast, stating, "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 only pivotal within the Harry Potter universe but are also iconic figures in broader pop culture. John Lithgow, in particular, has spoken about the weight of taking on such a defining role. "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," he shared with 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."

Movies Like Harry Potter

11 ImagesWhile the new Harry Potter series does not yet have a release date, production is expected to start soon. Details about how this series will diverge from the original novels or the films released between the 2000s and early 2010s remain undisclosed. However, Warner Bros. has assured fans that the series will explore Harry's story "a little bit more in depth than you can in just a two-hour film." Notably, controversial author J.K. Rowling is involved in the show's development.

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