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

The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While fans eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, the roles of Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others have now been filled. Let's dive into the details of these exciting casting choices and see which major characters are yet to be announced.

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 six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award-winning actor, John Lithgow. Dumbledore, a pivotal mentor to Harry Potter, has a rich backstory involving a tragic relationship with the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow, known for his versatile performances in shows like 3rd Rock From the Sun, Dexter, The Crown, and films such as Shrek, Interstellar, and Footloose, is set to bring depth and nuance to this iconic character.

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 of the character were portrayed by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

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

Tony Award and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. McGonagall, a fan-favorite character introduced early in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, is known for her strict yet caring nature. McTeer, who has starred in films and series like Me Before You, The Menu, Ozark, and The Old Man, is sure to bring a compelling performance to this beloved role.

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

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will take on the complex role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor at Hogwarts and head of Slytherin. Snape's intricate history with Harry Potter and his parents, James and Lily, adds layers to his character, making him one of the most pivotal figures in the series. Essiedu, known for his work in I May Destroy You, Black Mirror, and The Outrun, is poised to deliver a captivating portrayal of this multifaceted character.

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

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

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

Nick Frost will step into the shoes of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who serves as the gamekeeper and groundskeeper at Hogwarts. Hagrid's role in rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and guiding him into the magical world is unforgettable. Frost, known for his comedic roles in films like Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World’s End, brings his unique charm to this warm-hearted character.

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

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

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

Luke Thallon will portray Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. As a relatively new face in acting, Thallon has appeared in The Favourite and Present Laughter, and is set to introduce a fresh take on this intriguing character.

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-winning actor Paul Whitehouse will play Argus Filch, the caretaker of Hogwarts known for his strict enforcement of school rules and his constant companion, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse, recognized for his roles in The Fast Show, Harry & Paul, and films like The Death of Stalin, brings his comedic talent to this role.

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

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

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, the producing duo that will be leading the charge on HBO’s reboot, and our comprehensive guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.