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

The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While fans eagerly await the casting of iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, the roles of Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others have now been filled. Dive into the details below to discover who will be bringing these beloved characters to life in this new adaptation, and who is still yet to be cast.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

Six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award-winning actor John Lithgow will portray Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Known as one of the most powerful wizards in the Harry Potter universe, Dumbledore plays a pivotal role as Harry's mentor. His complex backstory includes a tragic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, a dark wizard of immense power. Lithgow's extensive career includes standout performances in "3rd Rock From the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," "The World According to Garp," "Perry Mason," "The Old Man," "Footloose," "Terms of Endearment," and "Interstellar," among others.

Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed Dumbledore in "Sorcerer’s Stone" and "Chamber of Secrets," while Michael Gambon took over the role for the remainder of the series. Toby Regbo and Jude Law have also played younger versions of the character.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony Award and Golden Globe Award-winning actress Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, a cherished figure at Hogwarts as the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress. She first appears in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone" alongside Dumbledore, helping to deliver Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's notable roles include "Me Before You," "The Menu," "Albert Nobbs," "Tumbleweeds," "The Old Man," "Ozark," and "Sorry for Your Loss."

Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith portrayed McGonagall in the original series, and Fiona Glascott played her in the "Fantastic Beasts" series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will take on the complex role of Severus Snape, the Potions professor and head of Slytherin at Hogwarts. Snape's intricate relationship with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, adds depth to his character, making him a challenging yet crucial figure in the series. Essiedu's previous work includes "I May Destroy You," "The Outrun," "Black Mirror," "Men," "The Lazarus Project," and "Gangs of London."

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

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost will bring to life Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who serves as Hogwarts' gamekeeper and groundskeeper. Hagrid is instrumental in Harry's journey, rescuing him from the Dursleys and becoming one of his closest friends. Frost's comedic talent shines in films like "Shaun of the Dead," "Skeleton Crew," "The World’s End," "Hot Fuzz," and "Attack the Block."

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

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon will portray Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, a newcomer to the acting scene, has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."

Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA-winning actor Paul Whitehouse is set to play Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's notable works include "The Fast Show," "Harry & Paul," "The Death of Stalin," "Alice Through the Looking Glass," "Corpse Bride," and "Alice in Wonderland."

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

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

The casting process continues for several key characters, including Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Dolores Umbridge, Alastor Moody, Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood, Fred and George Weasley, Arthur and Molly Weasley, James and Lily Potter, Bellatrix Lestrange, Neville Longbottom, Cedric Diggory, Dudley, Petunia, and 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 magical world of Harry Potter, explore our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, learn about the producing duo leading the charge on HBO’s reboot, and discover our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.