Top 25 Harry Potter Characters: Books vs. Movies

In 2025, the Harry Potter universe continues to captivate audiences worldwide, celebrating its enduring legacy as one of the most beloved franchises in entertainment history. As we reflect on the magic that has kept fans spellbound for over two decades, we've compiled a list of the 25 best characters from the Harry Potter film and book series, based on fan reaction, impact on the franchise, relevance to pivotal moments, and their significance in the Potter mythos. While this list excludes characters from Hogwarts Legacy and remains unaffected by the upcoming Harry Potter series, we invite you to share your thoughts and missing favorites in the comments below.

Join us in the Great Hall for a special assembly as we explore the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books.

The 25 Best Harry Potter Characters

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25. Dobby

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"Such a beautiful place... to be with friends." These poignant words from Dobby the house-elf, spoken during his final moments in Deathly Hallows Part 1, encapsulate his selfless spirit. Initially appearing as a quirky and sometimes irritating character in Chamber of Secrets, Dobby's true loyalty and kindness towards Harry Potter shine through. Despite his smaller role in the films compared to the books, Dobby's ultimate sacrifice to save Harry and his friends remains one of the series' most heart-wrenching scenes.

24. Gellert Grindelwald

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Once the most feared dark wizard before Voldemort, Gellert Grindelwald's brief yet impactful presence in the main series pales in comparison to his central role in the Fantastic Beasts prequels. These films delve into his reign of terror in the early 20th century and his complex relationship with Albus Dumbledore. Although the Fantastic Beasts series was cut short, Grindelwald's character leaves a lasting impression on the wizarding world's history.

23. Ginny Weasley

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Ginny Weasley's journey from a shy, lovesick girl to a fierce member of Dumbledore's Army is a testament to her growth and resilience. Her romance with Harry, blossoming naturally within the Weasley family's warm embrace, adds depth to her character. Ginny's leadership and bravery in the fight against evil make her an essential part of the series, even if her full potential wasn't fully explored in the films.

22. Gilderoy Lockhart

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Gilderoy Lockhart's charm and vanity make him a memorable figure in the series. His exaggerated claims of heroism and subsequent downfall as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts provide both comic relief and a cautionary tale about the dangers of hubris. His exposure by Harry and his friends in Chamber of Secrets adds a satisfying twist to his character arc.

21. Albus Severus Potter

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Named after two of the wizarding world's most iconic figures, Albus Severus Potter faces the immense pressure of living up to his name. Introduced in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, his story explores themes of legacy and identity. While only briefly seen in the films, Albus Severus' journey offers a fresh perspective on the Potter family's ongoing saga.

20. Molly Weasley

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Molly Weasley embodies the quintessential loving and magical mother. Her nurturing of Harry, treating him as one of her own, fills a void in his life left by his parents' absence. Beyond her maternal warmth, Molly's courage shines through as a member of the Order of the Phoenix, culminating in her fierce defense of her family during the Battle of Hogwarts.

19. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody

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Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the grizzled veteran Auror, brings a hardened edge to the series. His role as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher and subsequent impersonation by Barty Crouch Jr. add layers of tension and intrigue. Moody's dedication to the Order of the Phoenix and his ultimate sacrifice in protecting Harry underscore his bravery and commitment to the cause.

18. Minerva McGonagall

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Professor McGonagall, the strict yet caring head of Gryffindor, strikes a balance between discipline and compassion. Her unwavering support for Harry and her pivotal role in the Order of the Phoenix highlight her dedication to the fight against evil. McGonagall's presence is a constant source of strength and guidance throughout Harry's journey at Hogwarts.

17. Dolores Umbridge

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Dolores Umbridge's sheer detestability makes her one of the series' most memorable villains. Her oppressive regime at Hogwarts and cruel treatment of students, including Harry, evoke strong reactions from fans. J.K. Rowling's creation of Umbridge as a more insidious threat than Voldemort showcases the power of bureaucratic evil, making her a character fans love to hate.

16. Lucius Malfoy

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Lucius Malfoy's arrogance and dark ambitions embody the sinister side of the wizarding world's elite. His actions set major plot points in motion, including the events of Chamber of Secrets. Lucius' fall from grace and Jason Isaacs' portrayal add depth to his character, making him a compelling antagonist throughout the series.

15. Newt Scamander

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Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the Fantastic Beasts series, offers a unique perspective on the wizarding world. His passion for magical creatures and awkward charm distinguish him from other heroes. While the premature end of the Fantastic Beasts series limits his development, Newt remains a beloved character for his kindness and dedication.

14. Remus Lupin

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Remus Lupin's role as a compassionate Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher provides Harry with much-needed guidance and support. His personal connection to Harry's parents and his struggle with being a werewolf add complexity to his character. Lupin's bravery as a member of the Order of the Phoenix and his relationship with Tonks further cement his importance in the series.

13. Luna Lovegood

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Luna Lovegood's eccentricity and unwavering belief in the extraordinary make her a standout character. Her friendship with Harry and her role in Dumbledore's Army showcase her bravery and loyalty. Luna's unique perspective and acceptance of others' differences make her a cherished member of the Hogwarts community.

12. Rubeus Hagrid

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Hagrid's warm and loyal presence is a cornerstone of Harry's journey. As a friend and mentor, he offers Harry the support and guidance he craves. Hagrid's emotional connection to Harry, Hermione, and Ron, as well as his pivotal role in the series' key moments, make him an integral part of the Harry Potter universe.

11. Fred and George Weasley

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Fred and George Weasley's humor and entrepreneurial spirit bring joy and levity to the series. Their pranks and antics at Hogwarts, coupled with their bravery as members of Dumbledore's Army, showcase their multifaceted characters. Fred's tragic sacrifice in the Battle of Hogwarts underscores their dedication to the fight against evil.

10. Bellatrix Lestrange

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Bellatrix Lestrange's sadistic joy in cruelty makes her one of the series' most terrifying villains. Her actions, including the torture of Neville's parents and the murder of Sirius Black, leave a lasting impact on the characters and the story. Bellatrix's ultimate fate serves as a fitting end to her reign of terror.

9. Draco Malfoy

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Draco Malfoy's journey from a privileged bully to a conflicted young man adds depth to his character. Tasked with killing Dumbledore, Draco's struggle with morality and loyalty to his family showcases his internal conflict. His eventual refusal to kill Dumbledore highlights his complexity and growth throughout the series.

8. Sirius Black

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Sirius Black's transformation from a feared fugitive to a devoted godfather is one of the series' most compelling arcs. His bond with Harry and his role in the Order of the Phoenix emphasize his importance. Sirius' untimely death leaves a profound impact on Harry, underscoring the emotional stakes of the series.

7. Voldemort

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Lord Voldemort, the embodiment of pure evil, serves as the ultimate antagonist in the series. His fear-inducing presence and relentless pursuit of power drive the narrative forward. Voldemort's complex backstory and the psychological terror he instills in the wizarding world make him an unforgettable villain.

6. Neville Longbottom

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Neville Longbottom's evolution from a shy, uncertain boy to a courageous hero is one of the series' most inspiring transformations. His bravery in joining Dumbledore's Army and his pivotal role in the Battle of Hogwarts showcase his growth. Neville's resilience and loyalty make him a beloved character among fans.

5. Albus Dumbledore

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Albus Dumbledore's role as a mentor and guide to Harry is central to the series. His wisdom, eccentricity, and formidable magical prowess make him an iconic figure. Dumbledore's complex character, marked by both greatness and flaws, adds depth to his legacy. John Lithgow's casting as Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV show promises to bring a fresh interpretation to the beloved character.

4. Severus Snape

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Severus Snape's enigmatic presence and complex motivations make him one of the series' most debated characters. His role as a teacher, spy, and protector of Harry, despite his outward hostility, adds layers to his character. Snape's ultimate sacrifice and Alan Rickman's iconic portrayal cement his place as a fan favorite. Paapa Essiedu is reportedly in consideration for the role in the HBO series, promising to bring new depth to Snape's character.

3. Ron Weasley

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Ron Weasley's loyalty and humor make him an essential part of Harry's journey. His growth from a sidekick to a hero in his own right showcases his bravery and determination. Ron's complex relationship with Hermione and his pivotal moments, such as returning to help Harry in Deathly Hallows, highlight his importance to the trio's dynamic.

2. Hermione Granger

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Hermione Granger's intelligence, bravery, and moral compass make her an indispensable part of the series. Her development from a rule-abiding student to a fearless fighter for justice is inspiring. Hermione's unwavering support for Harry and her role in the trio's adventures solidify her as a beloved character. Her portrayal remains a benchmark for strong female characters in literature and film.

1. Harry Potter

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Harry Potter, the series' protagonist, embodies the classic underdog story of good versus evil. His journey from an orphaned boy to the savior of the wizarding world is both inspiring and relatable. Harry's imperfections and struggles, coupled with his bravery and loyalty, make him a timeless hero. As the HBO series prepares to introduce a new generation to the wizarding world, over 32,000 children auditioned for the lead roles, with filming set to begin in Spring 2025 and a premiere planned for 2026 on HBO Max.

The 25 best Harry Potter characters

And that's our pick of the 25 best Harry Potter characters. Do you agree with our picks? Or is your favorite missing? Let us know in the comments or create your own Harry Potter character tier list using our handy tool above.

Looking for more Harry Potter? Take a look at our guides to LEGO Harry Potter sets, Harry Potter board games, and more Harry Potter gift ideas. We've also gathered a list of the best books like Harry Potter if you're looking to dive further into the genre.

Upcoming Harry Potter

In addition to the Harry Potter HBO TV show, which will boast "big-picture storytelling" and "explore the Wizarding World more in depth than you can in a two hour film," Warner Bros. has confirmed Hogwarts Legacy 2 is one of its "biggest priorities" following the success of 2023's action RPG Hogwarts Legacy.