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HBO Reportedly in Final Talks With John Lithgow to Play Dumbledore in Harry Potter Series

Author : Audrey

Mar 18,2025

HBO is reportedly in final negotiations with John Lithgow, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Lord Farquaad in Shrek, to portray the iconic Hogwarts headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, in their upcoming Harry Potter reboot. Variety reports that Lithgow is nearing a deal to secure the starring role, although HBO has declined to officially confirm the casting. This development follows November reports naming Mark Rylance as the frontrunner for the Dumbledore part.

“We appreciate that such a high-profile series will generate considerable speculation,” an HBO spokesperson stated. “As we progress through pre-production, we will only confirm details upon finalizing agreements.”

Lithgow’s extensive and celebrated career includes roles in films such as The World According to Garp, Terms of Endearment, and Footloose, as well as television appearances in Dexter and The Crown.

John Lithgow. Photo by Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty Images.

While casting details remain largely confidential, various reports suggest HBO is making significant progress. The search for the actors to portray Harry, Hermione, and Ron is ongoing, but Paapa Essiedu has reportedly been cast as Severus Snape.

The series will prioritize British talent, mirroring the films’ casting approach. This is perhaps unsurprising given J.K. Rowling’s reported “fairly involved” participation in the casting process.

Announced in April 2023, the Harry Potter series aims to be a faithful adaptation of the novels, promising a more in-depth narrative than the film series allowed. Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, known for their work on Succession and Game of Thrones respectively, are attached to direct and write.