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

Exciting news for Harry Potter fans: HBO has unveiled the first six cast members for their highly anticipated TV series adaptation. While we eagerly await announcements about who will portray iconic characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Lord Voldemort, we now know who will bring to life the legendary figures of Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others. Let's dive into the details of these confirmed cast members and explore who still awaits casting.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

The esteemed John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, has been cast as the revered headmaster of Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore. Known as one of the most powerful wizards in the Harry Potter universe, Dumbledore plays a pivotal role as Harry's mentor and has a complex history with Gellert Grindelwald, a notorious dark wizard. Lithgow's extensive career includes standout performances in "3rd Rock From the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," and many more. In the original Harry Potter films, Dumbledore was portrayed by Richard Harris in the first two movies and by Michael Gambon in the subsequent films, with Toby Regbo and Jude Law playing younger versions.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer will embody the formidable Professor Minerva McGonagall, head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. McGonagall is a fan-favorite character introduced early in the series as she helps deliver Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's notable roles include "Me Before You," "The Menu," and "Ozark." In the original films, McGonagall was portrayed by Dame Maggie Smith, and Fiona Glascott took on the role in the "Fantastic Beasts" series.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu will step into the complex role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. Snape's deep connections to Harry and his parents, James and Lily, make him a central figure in the series. Essiedu's previous credits include "I May Destroy You" and "Black Mirror." In the films, Snape was portrayed by Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke playing younger versions.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost will take on the role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper of Hogwarts who rescues Harry from the Dursleys and becomes one of his closest allies. Frost is well-known for his comedic roles in films like "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz." Robbie Coltrane portrayed Hagrid in the original films, with Martin Bayfield playing the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon will portray Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon, a rising star, has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter." In the films, Quirrell was played by Ian Hart.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse has been cast as Argus Filch, the caretaker of Hogwarts who is often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse is known for his work in "The Fast Show" and "The Death of Stalin." David Bradley played Filch in the original films.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

While the first six cast members have been announced, many key roles are still up for grabs. The list of major characters yet to be cast includes Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Dolores Umbridge, Alastor Moody, Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood, the Weasley twins, and many more iconic figures from the Harry Potter universe.

For those eager to delve deeper into the world of Harry Potter, check out 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 guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.