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

Exciting news for Harry Potter fans! The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached a significant milestone with the revelation of the first six cast members. While we eagerly await announcements for iconic characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, we now know who will be portraying beloved figures such as Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and others. Dive in to discover who has been confirmed for this new adaptation of the magical world of Harry Potter, and which major roles are still up for grabs.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

The role of Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts and one of the most powerful wizards in the wizarding world, will be brought to life by six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award-winning actor John Lithgow. Dumbledore's complex past, including his tragic connection with Gellert Grindelwald, adds depth to his role as Harry Potter's mentor. John 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 many others.

Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris portrayed him in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone" and "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," while Michael Gambon took on the role for the rest of the series. Younger versions were played by Toby Regbo and Jude Law.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony Award and Golden Globe Award winner Janet McTeer will portray Professor Minerva McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress at Hogwarts. Known for her stern yet caring nature, McGonagall is one of the first characters introduced in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone," joining Dumbledore in delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer’s notable works 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 played her in the original series, and Fiona Glascott portrayed 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 at Hogwarts and head of Slytherin. Snape’s intricate relationship with Harry Potter and his parents, James and Lily, adds layers to his character. Essiedu has impressed audiences in "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 portrayed Snape, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke playing younger versions of the character.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

The role of Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant who serves as the gamekeeper and groundskeeper at Hogwarts, will be filled by Nick Frost. Hagrid plays a crucial role in Harry's journey, from rescuing him from the Dursleys to becoming one of his closest friends. Frost is well-known for his comedic roles in "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 played Hagrid, with Martin Bayfield portraying the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon, a rising star in the acting world, will take on the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor during Harry's first year at Hogwarts. Thallon's previous work includes "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."

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

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA-winning actor Paul Whitehouse will bring to life Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse's notable roles 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 took on the role.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

While the casting for key characters such as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Dolores Umbridge, Alastor Moody, Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood, Fred Weasley, George Weasley, Arthur Weasley, Molly Weasley, James Potter, Lily Potter, Bellatrix Lestrange, Neville Longbottom, Cedric Diggory, Dudley Dursley, Petunia Dursley, 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 is still pending, anticipation continues to build.

For further reading, 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 follow our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.