John Lithgow, Paapa Essiedu, and Nick Frost lead the star-studded cast in HBO’s ambitious decade-spanning adaptation coming in 2026.
For many devoted followers of the Harry Potter saga, the original movie cast holds an irreplaceable spot in their hearts. However, another segment of fans sees the upcoming Harry Potter TV show as a chance to delve deeper into the rich narrative of J.K. Rowling’s beloved seven-book series. This new adaptation promises to bring the wizarding world to life again, featuring a fresh take on the beloved characters that have captivated audiences for decades.
Major Casting Announcement Ends Fan Speculation
Endless speculation and fan theories can now be put to rest, as HBO has officially unveiled its first wave of casting announcements for several iconic roles set to appear in its HBO Harry Potter series.
In a major announcement on Monday, the network revealed that the esteemed John Lithgow as Dumbledore would step into the role of the headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Meanwhile, Paapa Essiedu would portray Severus Snape, Janet McTeer has been cast as Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Hagrid will bring the gentle half-giant to life. These performers will all serve as series regulars.
Photo credit: Martin Kraft, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Additionally, Luke Thallon has been selected to portray Quirinus Quirrell, while Paul Whitehouse, as Argus Filch, will take on the role of the cantankerous caretaker. Both will appear in recurring guest capacities.
Creative Team Behind the Series
The ambitious series, planned to span more than ten years, brings together the talents of writer and showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director and executive producer Mark Mylod, known for their work on Succession.
“We’re thrilled to confirm the casting of John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse in the roles of Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Quirrell and Filch,” the creative duo stated. “Having such remarkable talent join our project is incredible, and we’re eager to watch them breathe fresh life into these iconic characters.”
Meet the New Hogwarts Faculty
Lithgow, the American actor who recently starred in the acclaimed papal drama Conclave, which garnered both Bafta and Oscar recognition, will inherit the role previously portrayed by Richard Harris and Michael Gambon in the film series. As Hogwarts’ headmaster, Dumbledore serves as a wise and formidable wizard who guides Harry through his struggles against the dark lord Voldemort.
Earlier reports had suggested Mark Rylance was being considered for the role. However, Lithgow – a distinguished performer with six Emmy awards (including one for portraying Winston Churchill in The Crown), two Golden Globes, an Olivier, and a Tony – revealed his own casting in February.
Essiedu, who earned an Emmy nomination for his performance in the acclaimed series I May Destroy You and has appeared in shows like The Lazarus Project and Gangs of London, will take on the role of Hogwarts’ potions master Snape, previously portrayed by Alan Rickman. The character maintains a contentious relationship with Harry, stemming from past bullying by Harry’s father, James, and his unrequited feelings for Harry’s mother, Lily.
Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, whose illustrious career includes prestigious accolades such as a Tony Award, an Olivier Award, and a Golden Globe, will step into the role of the Gryffindor house leader – a character memorably portrayed by Dame Maggie Smith in the film series. Her impressive filmography includes notable performances in Tumbleweeds, Wuthering Heights, and more recently, The Menu.
Frost, celebrated for his comedic brilliance in beloved films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, will succeed the late Robbie Coltrane as Hagrid, the gentle half-giant serving as Hogwarts’ groundskeeper who becomes an unwavering friend and protector to Harry and his companions.
Paul Whitehouse, Waterstones, Piccadilly, London, 7 December 2023
Photo credit: Edwardx, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fan Reactions and Controversies
The latest casting revelations have sparked intense discussion within the Potter community. Controversy had already emerged following speculation about Essiedu’s potential casting as Snape, a character described in Rowling’s books as having “greasy, shoulder-length black hair, a hooked nose, and sallow skin.” Additional debate arose regarding the selection of an American actor for the pivotal role of Dumbledore.
The crucial roles of the central trio – Harry, Hermione, and Ron – remain unannounced, though they’re likely to be filled by fresh faces following Warner Bros’ open casting call last autumn for children between nine and eleven years old. Industry whispers suggest that Cillian Murphy might be in consideration for the role of Voldemort.
A Faithful Adaptation with Greater Depth
HBO has assured fans that the series will be a faithful adaptation of Rowling’s original works, with J.K. Rowling herself serving as executive producer on the project. The new adaptation promises to explore the narrative more deeply than its eight-film predecessor, which entertained audiences from 2001 to 2011.
MAX streaming platform, HBO’s rebranded streaming service, announced in April 2023 that the series would feature “the fantastic detail, much-loved characters, and dramatic locations that Harry Potter fans have cherished for over 25 years.”
“While each season will remain true to the original books and introduce Harry Potter’s incredible adventures to new global audiences, the classic films that fans adore will remain fundamental to the franchise and accessible worldwide.”
Rowling’s Involvement and Release Timeline
Rowling controls crucial elements of the Harry Potter intellectual property, including character rights. However, her involvement has proven controversial due to her stance on transgender issues, which has drawn criticism from several original cast members. The expansive Harry Potter universe – encompassing books, films, gaming, and theatre – has achieved an estimated value of £20bn ($26bn).
The HBO Harry Potter series is scheduled for a 2026 release on Max and HBO’s Warner Bros. Discovery streaming platform. This marks nearly three decades since Rowling’s first book hit shelves in 1997 and 15 years after the final film’s theatrical release. As the wizarding world prepares to enchant a new generation of viewers, fans around the globe eagerly anticipate this fresh take on the magical saga that has captured hearts for over a quarter of a century.
Source:
Nadia Khomami (April 14, 2025). HBO reveals first part of Harry Potter TV cast, including Dumbledore and Hagrid. https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/apr/14/hbo-reveals-first-part-of-harry-potter-tv-cast-including-dumbledore-and-hagrid. Accessed April 14, 2025
Header Photo: Header Photo: Author J.K. Rowling reads from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone at the Easter Egg Roll at White House. Screenshot taken from official White House video.
Photo credit: Photo credit: Executive Office of the President, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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