Who’s in the New Harry Potter HBO Series?

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It’s up for discussion whether the world truly requires a Harry Potter television series given how well the films have been received. However, one is being produced regardless, so those who are enthusiastic about the franchise might want to learn about the actors involved.

The lineup for HBO’s Harry Potter series includes several well-known faces, however, there are a couple that some fans might not recognize. To help familiarize yourself with the entire cast, here you can find the list of all confirmed actors, along with summaries of their most significant roles prior to joining the series.

1. John Lithgow

John Lithgow will play Albus Dumbledore

Beyond the trio of heroes, Dumbledore undeniably plays a crucial role in the Harry Potter series. Not only is he one of the most influential wizards ever, but he guides Harry through the climactic confrontation with Voldemort and carries out his responsibilities as the headmaster at Hogwarts simultaneously.

Although John Lithgow isn’t British by birth, his presence carries the weight required for portraying Dumbledore. His upcoming 80th birthday in late 2025 might raise doubts among some, given that the series is projected to last at least seven seasons. Yet, if he manages to stay fit, this decision could turn out to be a brilliant choice for the role.

John Lithgow’s Most Notable Roles

  • Dick Solomon (3rd Rock from the Sun)
  • Sam Burns (Terms of Endearment)
  • Roberta Muldoon (The World According to Garp)
  • Arthur Mitchell (Dexter)
  • Lord Farquaad (Shrek)

2. Janet McTeer

Janet McTeer will play Minerva McGonagall

From a broader perspective, Minerva McGonagall may not hold the same significance as Dumbledore, but her impact on the story is equally unforgettable. A significant factor in this lies with Dame Maggie Smith and her exceptional portrayal of the wise Professor McGonagall.

As a film enthusiast, I find it fascinating that Janet McTeer is roughly the same age as Alan Rickman was when he first donned the robes for the Harry Potter series. With two Academy Award nominations already under her belt, she’s undeniably admired and respected in our community. Therefore, it’s no wonder that fans were thrilled to see her cast as McGonagall. In fact, some have long suspected that she was destined for this role!

Janet McTeer’s Most Notable Roles

  • Mary Jo Walker (Tumbleweeds)
  • Hubert Page (Albert Nobbs)
  • Ellen “Nelly” Dean (Wuthering Heights)
  • Helen Pierce (Ozark)
  • Kate Franklin (Damages)

3. Paapa Essiedu

Paapa Essiedu will play Severus Snape

It wasn’t met with universal approval when Paapa Essiedu was named as the upcoming Severus Snape. However, regardless of individual opinions about the casting, it’s indisputable that the two-time BAFTA-nominated actor possesses the talent to breathe life into a character, be it on a stage or on a screen.

This is favorable since Snape is undeniably one of the most intricate characters in the “Harry Potter” series, both in the books and films. His murky past and the remorse that he now bears create a character that can be challenging to interpret. To put it mildly, his connection with the main character is far from simple.

Paapa Essiedu’s Most Notable Roles

  • Kwame (I May Destroy You)
  • George (The Lazarus Project)
  • Alex Dumani (Gangs of London )
  • George Boleyn (Anne Boleyn)
  • Sergeant Campbell (Murder on the Orient Express)

4. Nick Frost

Nick Frost will play Rubeus Hagrid

In taking on the role of Rubeus Hagrid, Nick Frost faces a significant challenge, as the shoes he steps into were filled by Robbie Coltrane, who truly made the character his own. It’s challenging to picture anyone else approaching the depth and quality of Coltrane’s performance in this role.

By demonstrating his knack for delivering humorous lines in Edgar Wright’s films, Frost has proven himself adept at comic timing. It remains intriguing to observe how he tackles the heavier, emotive scenes that Hagrid is known for in future projects.

Nick Frost’s Most Notable Roles

  • Ed (Shaun of the Dead)
  • Mike Watt (Spaced)
  • PC Danny Butterman (Hot Fuzz)
  • Andy Knightley (The World’s End)
  • Ron (Attack the Block)

5. Luke Thallon

Luke Thallon will play Quirinus Quirrell

From a film enthusiast’s perspective, I found Professor Quirrell, despite his significant role towards the climax, was somewhat underrepresented in the initial three-quarters of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.” Interestingly, unlike the other cast members who were confirmed at that time, Professor Quirrell only graced our screens once – in the very first movie. This early reveal of the actor behind Quirinus Quirrell left me somewhat puzzled, as I couldn’t help but wonder why the production team chose to unveil him so prematurely.

The role ultimately went to Luke Thallon, a British actor well-versed in stage performances. Notably, he has only minimal on-screen experience, with an uncredited part in the 2018 film “The Favourite.” Remarkably, Thallon will be making his television debut as a main cast member in HBO’s upcoming “Harry Potter” series, marking this as his first significant screen appearance to date.

6. Paul Whitehouse

Paul Whitehouse will play Argus Filch

David Bradley is a national treasure and belongs to the select group of actors who have graced the screen in Harry Potter, Doctor Who, and Game of Thrones. The actor taking over his role in HBO’s Harry Potter series enjoys similar recognition, having initially gained prominence through his performances on comedy shows like Harry Enfield & Chums and The Fast Show.

As I write this, it turns out that I’m the only HBO cast member of the Harry Potter series who was featured in the original films, though there’s a bit of a twist. You see, I played Sir Cadogan in ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,’ but for some reason, my scenes were eliminated during post-production, between filming and the movie’s premiere at the theater.

Paul Whitehouse’s Most Notable Roles​​​​​​​

  • Various (The Fast Show)
  • Various (Harry Enfield’s Television Programme)
  • William Van Dort / Mayhew / Paul the Head Waiter (Corpse Bride)
  • Anastas Mikoyan (The Death of Stalin)
  • Thackery Earwicket the March Hare (Alice in Wonderland)

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2025-04-16 19:38