John Lithgow Reveals He'll Play Dumbledore in HBO's Harry Potter TV Series

HBO's highly anticipated Harry Potter TV series has reportedly secured its Dumbledore: the acclaimed John Lithgow. While not yet officially confirmed by HBO or Warner Bros., Lithgow himself confirmed his involvement in an interview with ScreenRant. He described the role as a significant undertaking, stating it will define the "last chapter" of his career, even noting his projected age at the wrap party.

"It came as a total surprise," Lithgow shared, "a phone call at Sundance. It wasn't an easy decision; it will define me for the final chapter of my life. But I'm very excited. Wonderful people are revisiting Harry Potter."

This marks the first confirmed casting for the series, which aims to reimagine J.K. Rowling's novels with a completely new ensemble. Rowling will serve as executive producer alongside Neil Blair and Ruth Kenley-Letts.

The lack of a full cast suggests the show is still in the early stages of development. Lithgow, a veteran actor with credits including "3rd Rock from the Sun" and his Emmy-winning portrayal of Winston Churchill in "The Crown," brings considerable experience to the role.

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